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<p>The Work Capability Assessment (WCA) assesses individuals against a set of functional
descriptors not specific conditions, as two people with the same condition can be
affected in different ways. This does however take account of how fluctuating and
degenerative conditions, such multiple sclerosis, affect a claimant’s ability to work.</p><br
/><p>A healthcare professional gives advice on when they think a claimants functional
capability may have changed sufficiently to trigger a change in the outcome of the
WCA. Re-referral dates chosen can be 3, 6, 12, 18, 24 or 36 months depending on when
it is considered most appropriate for the claimant to have their next contact with
the Department.</p><br /><p>Decisions on claims to Personal Independence Payment are
made by case managers and are based on advice received from the assessment providers
following an assessment, together with any other evidence received. People with a
progressive condition, and who are not expected to live beyond six months, are not
required to attend a face-to-face assessment and their claims will always be decided
on the basis of the evidence received.</p><br /><p>Claims to Personal Independence
Payment are looked at individually, considering the impact on daily living and mobility
of the impairment or health condition, rather than solely basing the decision on the
impairment or health condition itself. Award durations and reviews are based on an
assessment of whether the individual’s functional abilities are likely to deteriorate,
improve or stay the same. Reviews ensure that claimants continue to receive the appropriate
level of award throughout their claim, including claimants with degenerative conditions
who may get a higher award at review to reflect a deterioration in their condition.</p><br
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