Grabowski vs. Commissioner of Social Security
Filing
19
DECISION & ORDER The Commissioner's motion for judgment on the pleadings 18 is denied, and Grabowski's motion for judgment on the pleadings 15 is granted to the extent that the Commissioner's decision is reversed, and this case is remanded to the Commissioner pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), sentence four, for further administrative proceedings consistent with this decision. Signed by Hon. Marian W. Payson on 9/28/2017. (KAH)-CLERK TO FOLLOW UP-
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
WESTERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK
_______________________________________
JENNIFER GRABOWSKI,
DECISION & ORDER
Plaintiff,
16-CV-6513P
v.
CAROLYN W. COLVIN,
COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SECURITY,1
Defendant.
_______________________________________
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT
Plaintiff Jennifer Grabowski (“Grabowski”) brings this action pursuant to Section
205(g) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), seeking judicial review of a final decision
of the Commissioner of Social Security (the “Commissioner”) denying her application for
Disability Insurance Benefits (“DIB”). Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c), the parties have
consented to the disposition of this case by a United States magistrate judge. (Docket # 7).
Currently before the Court are the parties’ motions for judgment on the pleadings
pursuant to Rule 12(c) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. (Docket ## 15, 18). For the
reasons set forth below, this Court hereby vacates the decision of the Commissioner and remands
this claim for further administrative proceedings consistent with this decision.
1
On January 23, 2017, after this appeal was filed, Nancy A. Berryhill became Acting Commissioner of
Social Security.
BACKGROUND
I.
Procedural Background
Grabowski protectively filed for DIB on April 14, 2013, alleging disability
beginning on August 2, 2012, due to stress, constant sickness, physical exhaustion, vertigo, and
underactive thyroid. (Tr. 225, 228).2 On August 13, 2013, the Social Security Administration
denied Grabowski’s claims for benefits, finding that she was not disabled. (Tr. 100). Grabowski
requested and was granted a hearing before Administrative Law Judge John R. Allen (the
“ALJ”). (Tr. 109-10, 130-34). The ALJ conducted a hearing on October 7, 2014. (Tr. 41-88).
During the hearing, Grabowski amended her alleged onset date to April 1, 2013. (Tr. 175).
Grabowski was represented at the hearing by Andrew S. Youngman, a non-attorney
representative. (Tr. 25). Subsequent to the hearing, Grabowski’s representative submitted
additional records to the ALJ, including records from Highland Family Medicine, University of
Rochester Medical Center’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, and Strong
Behavioral Health Clinic. (Tr. 2, 367-507). In a decision dated January 28, 2015, the ALJ found
that Grabowski was not disabled and was not entitled to benefits. (Tr. 22-40).
On March 16, 2015, Grabowski’s attorney, Ryan Bell, from Citizens Disability,
LLC, informed her that Citizens Disability would not represent her in connection with an appeal
of the unfavorable determination. (Tr. 21). On March 19, 2015, Christopher Pashler (“Pashler”),
Esq., notified the Appeals Council that he had recently been retained by Grabowski, submitted a
notice of appeal, and requested an additional forty-five days to submit a brief in support of the
appeal. (Tr. 17). On April 15, 2015, Pashler wrote to the Appeals Council indicating that he did
not have online access to the file and requesting an additional forty-five days. (Tr. 14). The
Appeals Council responded on April 16, 2015, granting an additional twenty-five days, but sent
2
The administrative transcript shall be referred to as “Tr. __.”
2
the extension to Grabowski’s former representative. (Tr. 12). Grabowski wrote the Appeals
Council on April 23, 2015, to advise that her current attorney of record was Pashler and that she
was no longer represented by Citizens Disability. (Tr. 11). On April 25, 2015, Pashler requested
a further extension of forty-five days. (Tr. 9). The Appeals Council granted a twenty-five day
extension. (Tr. 7-8).
On June 1, 2015, Pashler submitted a brief in support of Grabowski’s appeal.
(Tr. 256-61). He also submitted additional medical records, including the results of an April 3,
2014, audiological examination performed at the University of Rochester (Tr. 2, 508-09),
treatment records from Strong Behavioral Health dated March 6, 2015 through April 4, 2015,
treatment records from University of Rochester Medical Center’s Audiology Department dated
December 11, 2015, and treatment records from the Monroe County Department of Human
Services dated April 7, 2015. (Tr. 2). On June 22, 2016, the Appeals Council denied
Grabowski’s request for review of the ALJ’s decision. (Tr. 1-6). Grabowski commenced this
action on July 26, 2016, seeking review of the Commissioner’s decision. (Docket # 1).
II.
Relevant Medical Evidence3
A.
Treatment Records
1.
Grief and Trauma Recovery Counseling Centre
Treatment notes indicate that Grabowski initially met with Bonnie J. White
(“White”), LMHC, at the Grief and Trauma Recovery Counseling Centre on August 9, 2012.
(Tr. 264-66). Grabowski reported that she was suffering from extreme anxiety and feeling so
overwhelmed that she could not work. (Tr. 263). During the appointment, Grabowski reported
3
Those portions of the treatment records that are relevant to this decision are recounted herein.
3
that she had previously attempted suicide while under the influence of alcohol when she was
approximately twenty. (Id.).
Grabowski met with White again on August 22, 2012. (Tr. 267-71). The purpose
of the appointment was to address Grabowski’s reported intolerance to work and difficulty
dealing with her caretaking responsibilities for her boyfriend, who was suffering from cancer.
(Id.). According to Grabowski, her ability to perform daily and social activities had been
affected by her symptoms, and she had been either late or absent from work unexpectedly
approximately twenty times during the previous month. (Id.). Grabowksi reported that she had
not worked since she began seeking treatment and she was functioning better while not at work.
(Id.).
Grabowski returned for an appointment with White on September 6, 2012.
(Tr. 271-75). Grabowski completed a PCL-C evaluation, the results of which indicated that she
met the criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (“PTSD”), according to White. (Id.).
Grabowski discussed her childhood and recalled living with different relatives, including her
mother, father and grandmother. (Id.). According to Grabowski, she could recall the time she
spent at her father’s and grandmother’s, but was unable to recall her mother’s friends, although
she remembered dreading them. (Id.). White speculated that Grabowski may have been
traumatized or molested as a child. (Id.). Grabowski reported that her anxiety was triggered by
sounds at the factory where she worked. (Id.). She also reported feeling overwhelmed caring for
her sick boyfriend. (Id.).
White assessed that Grabowski suffered from PTSD and dissociative disorder or
reaction, unspecified. (Id.). White coordinated with Grabowski’s primary care physician to
address her mental health needs. (Id.). Her primary care physician reported that Grabowski had
4
quit her employment and indicated that she likely would need a psychiatric evaluation to confirm
White’s suspicions that Grabowski suffered from dissociative disorder. (Id.). White spoke to a
nurse practitioner who was caring for Grabowski, and he reported that Grabowski was currently
taking Clonazepam for anxiety and had previously been on Celexa. (Id.). White recommended
an SSRI to address PTSD and a possible a trial of Buspar for the general anxiety symptoms.
(Id.). She also recommended weekly therapy sessions. (Id.).
By letter dated January 23, 2013, White summarized her treatment of Grabowski,
which ended after the September 6, 2012, session due to lack of insurance. (Tr. 263). White
indicated that she had advised Grabowski that she was unable to tolerate her current job and
should attempt to find less stressful work. (Id.). On June 4, 2013, White indicated that although
she was not qualified to diagnose Grabowski, she suspected that Grabowski suffered from some
type of dissociative disorder and noted that a psychologist or psychiatrist would have to evaluate
Grabowski to determine if she was disabled from employment. (Tr. 262).
2.
Lifetime Health Medical Group
On February 3, 2013, Grabowski treated with physician assistant Shawn Ross
(“Ross”), PA, at the Lifetime Health Medical Group. (Tr. 278-80). During the visit, Grabowski
complained of congestion, dizziness, plugged ears, nausea, and sinus pain. (Id.). Ross assessed
that she suffered from sinusitis and vertigo. (Id.).
3.
Highland Family Medicine
Treatment records indicate that on May 10, 2013, Grabowski met with Lori G.
Conway (“Conway”), NP, at Highland Family Medicine to establish care. (Tr. 325-29). During
the visit, Grabowski complained of fatigue, a plugged ear, and nasal congestion. (Id.).
Grabowski reported that she had recently quit her job as a housecleaner as a result of fatigue,
5
despite working only about thirty-four hours per week. (Id.). She indicated that she previously
had been employed for approximately twelve years in printing, but had to leave the job because
it was too stressful. (Id.). She was currently engaged in photography on a part-time basis. (Id.).
Grabowski indicated that her fatigue was a major source of stress and that she frequently
suffered from ear infections. (Id.).
Conway assessed that Grabowski suffered from hypothyroidism, anxiety, fatigue,
right-sided chest wall pain, recurrent cold sores, allergic rhinitis, and stress due to her
boyfriend’s illness. (Id.). She ordered bloodwork and prescribed Celexa for anxiety and Claritin
for allergies. (Id.). Conway also increased the dosage of Levothyroxine, which was prescribed
to address Conway’s hypothyroidism. (Id.). She recommended that Grabowski engage in
supportive counseling to address issues stemming from her boyfriend’s illness. (Id.).
Grabowski returned for an appointment with Conway on July 2, 2013.
(Tr. 317-25). She continued to complain of daily fatigue that interfered with her ability to work.
(Id.). Grabowski also indicated that she experienced stress and anxiety due to her boyfriend’s
illness. (Id.). Grabowski scored thirteen on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (“GAD”)
assessment and on the Patient Health Questionnaire (“PHQ-9”), which assesses depression
severity. (Id.). Conway advised Grabowski to continue taking Citalopram, keep a daily schedule
even when not working, engage in supportive counseling, and follow up in two months. (Id.).
On September 17, 2013, Grabowski attended another appointment with Conway.
(Tr. 310-17). She continued to complain of severe, disabling fatigue, which she had been
experiencing for the previous three years, and muscle aches in her legs and feet. (Id.).
Grabowski reported difficulty sleeping. (Id.). She indicated that her mood and energy had not
improved since her last appointment, although she had started counseling. (Id.). She also
6
reported hearing loss. (Id.). Grabowski reported that she had applied for disability benefits, but
had been denied, and she requested that Conway complete paperwork relating to her claim. (Id.).
Grabowski disclosed that her previous doctor had not indicated that she was physically disabled.
(Id.). Conway reviewed Grabowski’s lab results and determined that there was no active disease,
although she indicated that chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia should be considered.
(Id.). She also assessed that Grabowski suffered from depressive disorder, not elsewhere
classified, prescribed Venlafaxine, and encouraged better sleep hygiene and increased exercise.
(Id.).
Grabowski returned for another appointment on October 25, 2013. (Tr. 307-10).
She complained of continued fatigue, depression, anxiety, and joint, back, and hip pain. (Id.).
She reported that she was not on a sleep schedule and that her fatigue was worse with physical
activity. (Id.). Grabowski indicated that ibuprofen helped alleviate her pain. (Id.). Upon
examination, Conway noted no trigger point tenderness in Grabowski’s back, although her right
hip was positive for pain with internal and external rotation, and the straight leg raise test was
limited to thirty degrees. (Id.). Conway assessed that Grabowski did not meet the criteria for
fibromyalgia and that many of her complaints were related to her depression, anxiety, and the
stress of caring for a loved one suffering from cancer. (Id.). She prescribed Nortriptyline for
depression and anxiety and ordered imaging of Grabowski’s right hip. (Id.). Conway
encouraged Grabowski to walk at least fifteen minutes a day and to maintain a regular meal, and
sleeping and waking schedule. (Id.).
Approximately one month later, on November 21, 2013, Grabowski attended
another appointment with Conway. (Tr. 302-06). During the appointment, Grabowski
complained of stress, anxiety, depression, and interrupted sleep. (Id.). She also reported
7
difficulty driving on busy roads. (Id.). According to Grabowski, she suffered from muscle
soreness, back pain, pain in her legs and hips, and stiffness when she awakens. (Id.). Conway
restarted Grabowski on Citalopram to address her depression and advised her to continue taking
Nortriptyline at night to assist with sleep and to continue counseling. (Id.). Conway assessed
that Grabowski’s fatigue was related to her depression, anxiety, and overall physical decondition.
(Id.). Conway suggested that Grabowski also might suffer from fibromyalgia, but noted that she
did not demonstrate trigger points. (Id.). Imaging of Grabowski’s hips were negative for
abnormalities. (Id.). Conway referred Grabowski to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for
further evaluation. (Id.).
On December 11, 2013, Grabowski attended another appointment with Conway.
(Tr. 297-302). Grabowski reported continued depression, although her mood had slightly
improved, feeling overwhelmed, pain in her low back, hip and thigh, and continued fatigue.
(Id.). She indicated that she was unable to work full-time on a sustained basis, but would like to
work approximately twenty to twenty-five hours per week, although she thought she would have
difficulty performing physical work and had limitations concentrating and attending to specific
tasks. (Id.). Upon examination, Conway noted tenderness in Grabowski’s lower back and lateral
thighs, but normal range of motion in her hips, knees, and feet. (Id.). She assessed that
Grabowski might suffer from fibromyalgia or simple deconditioning, as well as depression,
anxiety, and possible PTSD related to caring for her ill boyfriend. (Id.). Conway encouraged
Grabowski to maintain good sleep hygiene, to walk, to perform regular household and daily
activities, and to continue with her mental health counseling and medication. (Id.). Conway also
completed DSS paperwork recommending a part-time workweek with weight limitations for
pushing, pulling and lifting, avoidance of high stress jobs. (Id.).
8
Grabowski attended another appointment with Conway approximately one month
later on January 17, 2014. (Tr. 294-97). She informed Conway that she continued to see a
counselor, but had requested to be transferred to a female counselor. (Id.). She also indicated
that her fatigue and hip pain had worsened during the prior weeks. (Id.). Conway completed a
DSS form indicating that Grabowski was unable to work for six months due to her medical
conditions. (Id.). She reviewed the evaluation completed by Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation and agreed that physical therapy would improve Grabowski’s muscle strength and
decrease her hip pain. (Id.). Conway opined that Grabowski’s fatigue was likely situational and
related to her depression, but she referred her for a sleep study to rule out other causes. (Id.).
She noted that Dr. Sidhu did not think that Grabowski suffered from fibromyalgia, although she
believed she might have chronic fatigue syndrome. (Id.). Additionally, she noted that
Grabowski’s PHQ-9 score had improved. (Id.).
On February 18, 2014, Grabowski returned to Conway’s office for a follow-up
appointment. (Tr. 394-98). During the appointment, Grabowski continued to complain of
fatigue and muscle pain in her hips, feet, lower back, and thighs. (Id.). She also indicated that
she had been suffering from nasal congestion and rhinitis. (Id.). Conway noted that
Grabowski’s depression and anxiety were markedly improved since her previous visit, and
Grabowski reported that she had met with a new, female counselor. (Id.). Conway advised
Grabowski to continue physical therapy. (Id.). She noted that Grabowski might suffer from
chronic fatigue, although the results of a sleep study were pending, and indicated that she would
consider referring Grabowski to rheumatology for further evaluation if the sleep study results
were normal. (Id.).
9
During a follow-up appointment on April 22, 2014, Grabowski reported increased
fatigue and stress. (Tr. 390-94). She believed that her increased stress caused her to experience
increased pain in her feet, legs, and hips. (Id.). Conway noted that the sleep study showed that
Grabowski did not have an obstruction and that Grabowski would be following up with the sleep
center for sleep hygiene recommendations. (Id.). Conway referred Grabowski for vocational
rehabilitation and noted that Grabowski would be unable to tolerate a job involving repetitive
motion. (Id.). Grabowski requested that Conway complete a disability evaluation form, but
Conway advised Grabowski to attempt to gauge her ability to engage in physical activity in order
to complete the form. (Id.). If Grabowski reported she was unable to do any activity listed on
the form, Conway would recommend a functional evaluation from a physical therapist. (Id.).
Grabowski returned for an appointment with Conway on May 13, 2014.
(Tr. 376-90). Grabowski’s PHQ-9 and GAD scores were much improved, and the results from
the sleep study had demonstrated that she did not suffer from any major sleep disorder or sleep
apnea. (Id.). Grabowski reported that she was exercising daily at home and was walking her dog
approximately twenty minutes every day. (Id.). She continued to complain of leg, back and
knee pain, particularly in the morning. (Id.). Conway assessed that Grabowski’s depression and
anxiety were improving with therapy and medication, and that fatigue continued to be a severe
problem for her. (Id.). Conway indicated that Grabowski “may truly be suffering from chronic
fatigue syndrome.” (Id.). She encouraged Grabowski to continue her efforts to increase her
activity and to follow up with Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. (Id.). Conway completed
forms for Grabowski’s attorneys indicating that Grabowski could engage in low-stress, part-time
employment that did not involve physical activity, as full-time work would be difficult for
Grabowski. (Id.).
10
On July 17, 2014, Grabowski attended another appointment with Conway.
(Tr. 371-76). Grabowski reported that she felt that her depression and anxiety had improved and
that she had been attending a guided meditation class, which was helpful. (Id.). Her PHQ-9
score was ten, and her GAD score was four. (Id.). Conway agreed with the report from Physical
Medicine and Rehabilitation that Grabowski should be referred to rheumatology for further
evaluation and noted again that Grabowski “likely has true chronic fatigue.” (Id.).
Grabowski returned for an appointment with Conway on September 9, 2014.
(Tr. 367-71). During the appointment, Grabowski complained of migraine headaches with visual
auras. (Id.). She also complained of ongoing allergies, fatigue, and body aches. (Id.). Upon
examination, Conway noted no point tenderness in Grabowski’s back. (Id.). Conway indicated
that Grabowski would be evaluated by a rheumatologist for her fatigue, and she increased her
Cymbalta dosage and decreased her Pamelor dosage. (Id.).
4.
Strong Memorial Hospital Behavioral Health Department
On September 3, 2013, Grabowski met with Brian Wade Turnipseed
(“Turnipseed”), a psychological therapist with Strong Memorial Hospital’s Behavioral Health
Department. (Tr. 482-93). Grabowski reported that she had suffered from depression beginning
when she was approximately twenty-one, at which time she was hospitalized for a suicide
attempt. (Id.). She endorsed current feelings of depression, irritability, and exhaustion. (Id.).
Grabowski indicated that she had previously been employed for approximately twelve years at a
printing business, which caused her stress, anxiety, and fatigue. (Id.).
According to Grabowski, for the previous twelve years, she had lived with her
boyfriend, who had been suffering from cancer for the last six years. (Id.). Grabowski was her
boyfriend’s caregiver, causing her to be irritable and emotional. (Id.). Grabowski indicated that
11
she was undertaking house projects to prepare to sell their house because they were no longer
working. (Id.).
Grabowski scored fifteen on the GAD-7, indicating a moderate range of anxiety.
(Id.). She endorsed nervousness, excessive worry, difficulty relaxing, restlessness, and
irritability. (Id.). She also reported feeling anxious in public settings. (Id.). Turnipseed
assessed that she suffered from Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety and assessed a Global
Assessment of Functioning (“GAF”) of 55. (Id.). He recommended weekly or biweekly
psychotherapy sessions and medication management as directed by Conway. (Id.).
Grabowski met with Turnipseed for a therapy session on October 1, 2013.
(Tr. 494-95). During the session, Grabowski complained of lack of energy and chronic fatigue.
(Id.). She also endorsed several stressors, including her grandfather’s chronic illness, her
boyfriend’s illness, and the need for frequent healthcare appointments for herself and her
boyfriend. (Id.). Grabowski informed Turnipseed that attending sessions at Strong increased her
anxiety, particularly because parking was difficult, and requested that her appointments be
moved to Highland Family Medicine. (Id.). She also complained of ongoing financial stressors.
(Id.). Turnipseed agreed to move her sessions to Highland Family Medicine. (Id.).
On October 16, 2013, Grabowski met with Turnipseed at Highland Family
Medicine. (Tr. 499-500). She reported that the new location was much easier for her. (Id.).
Grabowski reported feeling weaker and more fatigued, and experiencing trouble with her
hearing. (Id.). Although she recently had a hearing test, she did not have confidence in the
results. (Id.). According to Grabowski, she occasionally felt dizzy or off-balance in public.
(Id.). She reported that her current focus was on learning new skills and finding a new job, but
expressed some concern regarding her mental capacity. (Id.).
12
Treatment notes indicate that Grabowski met with Turnipseed on December 2,
2013, and that he completed DSS paperwork for Grabowski two days later. (Tr. 504-05).
Additional notes indicate that Grabowski requested to be transferred to a female therapist, and
her case was transferred to Kaitlin Fitzgerald. (Id.).
5.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Treatment records indicated that Grabowski attended an appointment with
Kamaljit K. Sidhu (“Sidhu”), MD, and Brett Teran (“Teran”), DO, a medical resident, at
University of Rochester Medical Center’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department on
December 31, 2013. (Tr. 472-76). Grabowski complained of extreme fatigue and pain in her
back, hips, and legs that had persisted for over three years. (Id.). She indicated that she took
ibuprofen to alleviate her pain and had been prescribed Nortriptyline to assist with sleep. (Id.).
She also endorsed migraines and a history of depression, and indicated that her depression was
stable with Celexa. (Id.). She also complained of difficulty hearing, maintaining sleep, and
weight gain during the previous year. (Id.). Grabowski reported that she had been employed as
a cleaner until she quit her job approximately six months earlier due to fatigue and pain. (Id.).
Upon examination, Grabowski demonstrated minimal tender spots, and a
fibromyalgia screen was negative. (Id.). She exhibited decreased range of motion in her hips
due to tightness. (Id.). Teran and Sidhu noted that Grabowski’s “symptoms do not fit into the
category of fibromyalgia and are more likely consistent with musculoskeletal or localized
musculoskeletal pain.” (Id.). They recommended that Grabowski attend physical therapy to
address her bilateral thigh pain and to strengthen and stretch her hip, buttock, and thigh muscles.
(Id.). They also recommended that she be evaluated for sleep apnea or other sleep disorders that
could be causing her chronic fatigue. (Id.). They noted that if that evaluation were negative,
13
“she may need a referral to [r]heumatologist for further evaluation/management of chronic
fatigue syndrome.” (Id.).
Grabowski returned for a follow-up appointment and met with Claudia Ramirez,
MD, and Sidhu on March 25, 2014. (Tr. 478-80). Grabowski complained that her fatigue had
worsened since her last appointment. (Id.). She also complained of thigh and back pain. (Id.).
Grabowski was scheduled for a sleep study on March 27, 2014; the providers again noted that if
the results were negative, they would consider a referral to a rheumatologist for evaluation of
chronic fatigue syndrome. (Id.). They noted that the “etiology of her pain is unclear at this
point.” (Id.). They recommended that Grabowski continue her exercises and they would discuss
returning to physical therapy to review her current exercises. (Id.).
On July 15, 2014, Grabowski met with Sidhu for a follow-up appointment.
(Tr. 480-81). The treatment records indicate that the results of the sleep study were negative and
that Grabowski reported that she continued to suffer from fatigue and hip pain. (Id.). Grabowski
reported that she had been attempting to walk more frequently, but continued to become
fatigued, and that stress triggered her pain and fatigue. (Id.). She also reported attending one
physical therapy session and performing strength and stretching exercises at home on a daily
basis. (Id.). She recommended light exercises for approximately thirty minutes at least three
times per week, identified particular exercises to address Grabowski’s left hip pain and range of
motion, and offered a referral to physical therapy, which Grabowski declined. (Id.). Sidhu
emphasized the importance of maintaining her activity level “despite chronic fatigue syndrome.”
(Id.). Sidhu’s notes indicate “[r]eferral to rheumatology for further evaluation/treatment as
appropriate.” (Id.).
14
6.
URMC Sleep Disorders Center
On March 27, 2014, Grabowski met with Donald W. Greenblatt (“Greenblatt”),
MD, at the URMC Sleep Disorders Center to evaluate whether she suffered from a sleep
disorder. (Tr. 358-60). Grabowski reported poor sleep and not feeling refreshed upon
awakening. (Id.). She indicated that she napped during the day and had problems with
concentration, memory, and attention span. (Id.). Greenblatt recommended that she complete an
overnight polysomnogram to determine if she suffered from any qualitative sleep disturbance
that could be contributing to fatigue. (Id.). The study, which was conducted on April 8, 2014,
demonstrated a relative decrease in sleep efficiency with a reduced amount of REM sleep, but no
significant respiratory events, changes in oxyhemoglobin saturation, or any other primary sleep
pathology. (Tr. 361-66).
7.
URMC Audiology at Highland Hospital
On April 3, 2014, Grabowski underwent an audiological evaluation. (Tr. 508-09).
The results indicated borderline normal hearing sensitivity with mild sensorineural hearing loss.
(Id.). According to the audiologist, Grabowski’s borderline normal/mild hearing loss might
cause her to experience difficulty understanding speech in the presence of noise or speech at a
distance, but she was not a candidate for amplification. (Id.). The audiologist recommended that
Grabowski use hearing protection in the presence of loud noise. (Id.).
B.
Medical Opinions
1.
Yu-Ying Lin, PhD
On July 8, 2013, state examiner Yu-Ying Lin (“Lin”), PhD, conducted a
consultative psychiatric evaluation of Grabowski. (Tr. 285-89). Grabowski reported that she
currently lived with her boyfriend and drove herself to the appointment. (Id.). Grabowski also
15
reported that she had graduated from high school in a regular education setting. (Id.).
Grabowski was currently working part-time as a Little League photographer and had previously
been employed as a housekeeper, but had quit due to health issues and stress. (Id.).
According to Grabowski, she had difficulty sleeping. (Id.). Grabowski reported
depressive symptoms for the previous two years, including dysphoric moods, crying spells,
fatigue, diminished self-esteem, diminished sense of pleasure, and social withdrawal. (Id.).
Grabowski also reported anxiety for the same period, including excessive worry, fatigue,
irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and hyperstartle response. (Id.). Although she
initially reported that her anxiety symptoms occurred occasionally, she later indicated that her
anxiety was more “prevalent” than her depression. (Id.). Grabowski also endorsed panic
symptoms without identifiable triggers, including palpitations, sweating, and derealization,
approximately once a week. (Id.). Grabowski indicated that her primary stressors were her
health problems, her boyfriend’s health problems, and her finances. (Id.). She also reported that
she suffered from memory difficulties. (Id.).
Grabowski reported that she was able to care for her personal hygiene and
manage household chores, including cooking, cleaning, laundry, and shopping, although feelings
of weakness and dizziness sometimes made completing those tasks difficult. (Id.). She reported
that she was able to manage her finances, but sometimes “maxe[d] out” on her credit cards.
(Id.). Grabowski reported that she had good relationships with her family and friends, but that
they did not assist her. (Id.). She was able to drive and spent her day caring for her boyfriend
and pets and watching television. (Id.).
Upon examination, Lin noted that Grabowski appeared her stated age, was
casually dressed and well-groomed, and had normal motor behavior and eye contact. (Id.). Lin
16
opined that Grabowski had fluent, clear speech with adequate language, coherent and
goal-directed thought processes, full range but slightly anxious affect, neutral mood, clear
sensorium, full orientation, and average intellectual functioning with a general fund of
information that was appropriate to experience. (Id.). Lin noted that Grabowski’s attention and
concentration were mildly impaired due to anxiety in the evaluation. (Id.). Grabowski was able
to perform simple counting and calculations, but had some difficulty with the serial three
exercise. (Id.). According to Lin, Grabowski’s recent and remote memory skills were
moderately impaired due to evaluation anxiety. (Id.). Grabowski could recall three out of three
objects immediately and two out of three objects after delay, and could complete five digits
forward and three digits backward. (Id.).
Lin opined that Grabowski could follow and understand simple directions,
perform simple tasks independently, make appropriate decisions, and relate adequately with
others. (Id.). Lin further opined that Grabowski was mildly limited in maintaining attention and
concentration, mildly to moderately limited in maintaining a regular schedule, and moderately to
markedly limited in appropriately dealing with stress. (Id.). Lin opined that the results of
Grabowski’s examination were consistent with psychiatric problems, but did not appear to be
significant enough to interfere with her ability to function on a daily basis. (Id.). She diagnosed
Grabowski with anxiety disorder, not otherwise specified, and depressive disorder, not otherwise
specified. (Id.).
2.
Harbinder Toor, MD
On July 8, 2013, state examiner Harbinder Toor (“Toor”), MD, conducted a
consultative internal medicine examination. (Tr. 290-93). Grabowski reported suffering from an
underactive thyroid, extreme exhaustion and weakness, and a history of frequent illness,
17
including ear infections, colds, and flu. (Id.). She reported experiencing vertigo occasionally,
but denied experiencing any pain, numbness, or weakness. (Id.). Grabowski also reported
suffering from depression and anxiety. (Id.).
Grabowski reported that she was able to care for her personal hygiene, cook and
clean as needed, do laundry twice a week, and shop once a week. (Id.). Grabowski reported that
she enjoyed watching television and engaged in photography as a hobby. (Id.).
Upon examination, Toor noted that Grabowski had a normal gait and did not
appear to be in acute distress. (Id.). She was able to complete the heel and toe walking without
difficulty and could squat fully. (Id.). She used no assistive devices, did not need assistance to
change for the examination or to get on and off the examination table, and had no difficulty
rising from the chair. (Id.).
Toor noted that Grabowski’s cervical and lumbar spine showed full flexion,
extension, lateral flexion bilaterally, and rotary movement bilaterally. (Id.). The straight leg
raise was negative, and Grabowski demonstrated full range of motion in her shoulders, elbows,
forearms, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles bilaterally. (Id.). Toor assessed that Grabowski’s hand
and finger dexterity were intact and her grip strength was five out of five bilaterally. (Id.). Toor
indicated that Grabowski did not have any limitation for gross or fine motor activity and that no
other physical medical limitations were suggested by the examination. (Id.).
3.
E. Kamin, PhD
On July 18, 2013, agency medical consultant E. Kamin (“Kamin”), PhD,
completed a Psychiatric Review Technique. (Tr. 94). Kamin concluded that Grabowski’s
mental impairments did not meet or equal a listed impairment. (Id.). According to Kamin,
Grabowski suffered from no limitations in her activities of daily living and mild limitations in
18
her ability to maintain social functioning, concentration, persistence and pace. (Id.). In addition,
according to Kamin, Grabowski had not suffered from repeated episodes of deterioration. (Id.).
Kamin completed a mental residual functional capacity (“RFC”) assessment. (Tr. 96-97).
Kamin opined that Grabowski suffered from moderate limitations in her ability to maintain
attention and concentration for extended periods, perform activities within a schedule, maintain
regular attendance, and be punctual within customary tolerances, work in coordination with or in
proximity to others without being distracted by them, complete a normal workday and workweek
without interruptions from psychologically-based symptoms and perform at a consistent pace
without an unreasonable number and length of rest periods, interact appropriately with the
general public, accept instructions and respond appropriately to criticism from supervisors, get
along with coworkers or peers without distracting them or exhibiting behavioral extremes, and
respond appropriately to changes in the work setting. (Id.).
4.
Kaitlin Fitzgerald and Barbara Gawinski, PhD
On May 13, 2014, Kaitlin Fitzgerald (“Fitzgerald”)4 completed a Monroe County
Department of Human Services Psychological Assessment for determination of employability
form relating to Grabowski. (Tr. 346-49). The form was reviewed and signed by Barbara
Gawinski (“Gawinski”), PhD. (Id.). Fitzgerald indicated that she had been providing treatment
to Grabowski for approximately three months and had evaluated her on six occasions. (Id.).
According to Fitzgerald, Grabowski complained of anxiety and depression secondary to her
chronic pain, fatigue, undiagnosed medical conditions, and financial distress. (Id.). Fitzgerald
diagnosed Grabowski with adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood, and
rule out general anxiety disorder, and assessed a GAF of 52. (Id.).
4
The record suggests that Kaitlin Fitzgerald also used the name Kaitlin K. Porpigila. (Tr. 357). For ease
of reference, this decision will refer to her as “Fitzgerald.”
19
Using a checklist chart on the form, Fitzgerald indicated that Grabowski was very
limited5 in her ability to follow, understand, and remember simple instructions and directions,
and maintain attention and concentration for role tasks. (Id.). She also opined that Grabowski
was moderately limited6 in her ability to regularly attend to a routine and maintain a schedule.
(Id.). According to Fitzgerald, there was no evidence of any limitation in Grabowski’s ability to
perform simple and complex tasks independently, maintain basic standards of hygiene and
grooming, and perform low stress and simple tasks. (Id.). Fitzgerald opined that Grabowski
would be unable to participate in any activities except individual psychotherapy for the following
six months. (Id.).
On September 23, 2014, Fitzgerald completed a mental health questionnaire
relating to Grabowski, which was reviewed and signed by Gawinski and Holly Russell, MD.
(Tr. 355-57). On the form, Fitzgerald diagnosed Grabowski with generalized anxiety disorder,
characterized by anhedonia, appetite disturbance, sleep disturbance, decreased energy, feelings
of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating or thinking, motor tension, autonomic
hyperactivity, apprehensive expectation, vigilance and scanning, poor memory, irritability,
somatization unexplained by organic disturbance, and social withdrawal or isolation. (Id.).
According to Fitzgerald, Grabowski was frequently worried and focused on her health. (Id.).
Fitzgerald had insufficient evidence to opine as to whether Grabowski suffered from limitations
in her activities of daily living, but opined that she suffered from extreme7 deficiencies in
concentration, persistence or pace resulting in failure to complete tasks in a timely manner, and
5
“Very limited” was defined to mean unable to function twenty-five percent or more of the time. (Id.).
6
“Moderately limited” was defined to mean unable to function ten to twenty-five percent of the time.
7
“Extreme” was defined to mean “severe impairment of ability to function.” (Id.).
(Id.).
20
marked8 difficulties in maintaining social functioning. (Id.). Fitzgerald further opined that
Grabowski suffered from extreme episodes of deterioration or decompensation in work or
work-like settings that caused her to withdraw from the situation or to experience an
exacerbation of symptoms. (Id.). According to Fitzgerald, Grabowski would likely be absent
from work more than four days per month. (Id.).
III.
Non-Medical Evidence
During the administrative hearing, Grabowski testified that she was forty-two
years old and lived with her boyfriend, who was disabled with cancer. (Tr. 47, 67-68).
Grabowski testified that she had graduated from high school. (Tr. 48). Grabowski testified that
she was a licensed driver, although she indicated she got very anxious driving, especially in
heavy traffic on highways. (Tr. 47-48).
Grabowski testified that her last full-time job was with a printing company, where
she had worked operating machines. (Tr. 48-49, 59-61). She indicated that she stopped working
in April 2013 because of problems with stress and fatigue and frequent physical illnesses.
(Tr. 48-49). According to Grabowski, “[I]t got so bad that I actually had to be pulled out of
work[;] I actually started crying and couldn’t stop from all the stress.” (Tr. 49). After that, she
tried working part-time (20 to 25 hours a week) as a housekeeper at a hotel. (Tr. 49, 52).
Grabowski explained that she could not keep up with that job either because she was “so
exhausted and again getting sick” that she was frequently absent. (Tr. 49-50). Since she stopped
working, she had fewer illnesses, although she still got “very fatigued” and anxious and
sometimes experienced dizziness and balance problems. (Tr. 50). Grabowski testified that
8
“Marked” was defined to mean “an impairment which seriously affects ability to function independently,
appropriately, and effectively.” (Id.).
21
before her job with the printing company, she had worked at Xerox, assembling small parts of
printing machines that were wheeled to her on a cart at her duty station. (Tr. 55-58).
With respect to physical symptoms, Grabowski testified that for the past three
years she had daily intermittent pain in her hip, legs, arms, neck – “all over really.” (Tr. 51-52).
According to Grabowski, the pain increased with activity, and her doctors had been unable to
identify the cause. (Tr. 51). She testified that they were still trying to determine the cause. (Id.).
Grabowski indicated that she treated with her primary care physician every six to
eight weeks and her mental health therapist every other week. (Tr. 62-63). According to
Grabowski, she began treating with her therapist approximately a year earlier. (Tr. 63). Upon
hearing that testimony, the ALJ asked Grabowski’s representative, “[D]o we have those records?
I’m looking for them.” (Id.). The representative reviewed the exhibits and acknowledged that
the records did not appear to be complete. (Id.). The following exchange occurred:
ALJ:
Okay. Counsel, I’m going to want those.
[REPRESENTATIVE]:
ALJ:
Yes, your honor.
So I’ll hold the record open 30 days to get those.
(Id.).
The ALJ returned to the subject of the type of treatment Grabowski had received.
(Tr. 63-64). Grabowski testified that she took prescribed medication for her thyroid issues,
depression and anxiety, and sleep and pain. (Tr. 64). She testified that she also had participated
in physical therapy and a sleep study. (Id.).
With respect to physical limitations, Grabowski testified that she could stand for
about twenty or thirty minutes before needing to sit down, walk about fifteen minutes, and
comfortably lift about five pounds due to weakness in her shoulder and arms. (Tr. 65-66).
22
Grabowski explained that her physicians “want to refer me to a rheumatologist” to try to
determine the cause of her pain. (Tr. 67).
In response to the ALJ’s question about her current mental condition and “mood,”
Grabowski testified, “I’d say my mood is, like – how do you call it, like lack of motivation type
of – lack of interest type thing. I snap kind of easy at things.” (Id.). She indicated that she
recently changed mental health medication because she “couldn’t stop crying” and “[e]verything
upset [her].” (Tr. 74). According to Grabowski, the new medication appeared to help reduce the
crying spells, although she testified that she still “snap[s] real easy.” (Id.). In addition to anxiety
caused by driving, Grabowski explained that she sometimes experienced anxiety in stores,
resulting in dizziness and a need to leave. (Tr. 75). Grabowski testified that she was trying to
learn breathing techniques to address her anxiety and calm her down. (Id.). According to
Grabowski, she did not sleep well “at all” and felt as if she could not remember or retain
anything. (Tr. 68).
Grabowski testified that she prepared her own meals, went grocery shopping,
cleaned the house, although she indicated that she got overwhelmed by the cleaning and was
“always behind,” and sometimes socialized with her family. (Tr. 69-70). She typically spent her
day watching television, sitting outside, and resting. (Tr. 70-71). She estimated that she spent a
total of four hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. lying down. (Tr. 73-74).
Vocational expert Joyce Ryan (“Ryan”) also testified during the hearing.
(Tr. 76-87). The ALJ first asked Ryan to characterize Grabowski’s previous employment.
(Tr. 78-79). The ALJ then asked Ryan whether a person would be able to perform Grabowski’s
previous jobs who was the same age as Grabowski, with the same educational and vocational
profile, and who was able to perform the full range of light work, but was limited to lifting
23
occasionally twenty pounds; lifting frequently ten pounds; sitting, standing and walking six
hours in an eight-hour workday; occasional climbing steps and ramps, balancing, kneeling,
stooping, crawling, crouching; who must avoid exposure to workplace hazards; and would be
precluded from climbing ladders, ropes, or scaffolds; and could only perform simple, routine,
repetitive tasks, and follow simple instructions and directions; only perform simple tasks
independently; only engage in “low stress activities,” meaning no production quota or fast-paced
assembly; only experience occasional changes in work structure and routine; and only have
superficial interaction with the public. (Tr. 79-80). Ryan testified that such an individual would
be able to perform only one job of Grabowski’s past relevant work – that of assembler of small
products – but would be able to perform other positions available in the national and local
economy, including the positions of cleaner, mailroom sorter, and photocopy machine operator.
(Tr. 80-82).
The ALJ then asked Ryan to assume an individual with the same limitations, with
the additional limitation that the individual would need to take a thirty to sixty minute break in
the morning and in the afternoon. (Tr. 82). Ryan testified that such an individual would be
precluded from competitive employment. (Id.).
Finally, the ALJ asked Ryan to assume an individual with the same
non-exertional limitations but without exertional limitations, and to assume the need for
additional breaks described in the second hypothetical. (Tr. 83). Ryan testified that such an
individual would also be precluded from competitive employment. (Id.).
After Grabowski’s representative questioned Ryan, the ALJ stated:
I’m going to hold the record open for 30 days for receipt of the
therapist notes. I’d like to have the whole year’s worth of
treatment and all I’ve got is from 2013 in December and that’s all I
have. So if you could get those to us I’ll hold the record open.
24
After I get those[,] I’ll try and sort through the medical records.
And then think carefully about what you’ve told me. . . . It will be
a little bit longer for me to get you a decision because we have to
get the medical records.
(Tr. 87). Grabowski responded, “Okay,” and her representative responded, “Thank you, your
honor.” (Id.).
DISCUSSION
I.
Standard of Review
This Court’s scope of review is limited to whether the Commissioner’s
determination is supported by substantial evidence in the record and whether the Commissioner
applied the correct legal standards. See Butts v. Barnhart, 388 F.3d 377, 384 (2d Cir. 2004)
(“[i]n reviewing a final decision of the Commissioner, a district court must determine whether
the correct legal standards were applied and whether substantial evidence supports the
decision”), reh’g granted in part and denied in part, 416 F.3d 101 (2d Cir. 2005); see also Brault
v. Soc. Sec. Admin., 683 F.3d 443, 447 (2d Cir. 2012) (“[i]t is not our function to determine
de novo whether [a plaintiff] is disabled[;] . . . [i]nstead, we conduct a plenary review of the
administrative record to determine if there is substantial evidence, considering the record as a
whole, to support the Commissioner’s decision and if the correct legal standards have been
applied”) (internal citation and quotations omitted). Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), a district
court reviewing the Commissioner’s determination to deny disability benefits is directed to
accept the Commissioner’s findings of fact unless they are not supported by “substantial
evidence.” See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (“[t]he findings of the Commissioner . . . as to any fact, if
supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive”). Substantial evidence is defined as
“more than a mere scintilla. It means such relevant evidence as a reasonable mind might accept
25
as adequate to support a conclusion.” Richardson v. Perales, 402 U.S. 389, 401 (1971) (internal
quotation omitted).
To determine whether substantial evidence exists in the record, the court must
consider the record as a whole, examining the evidence submitted by both sides, “because an
analysis of the substantiality of the evidence must also include that which detracts from its
weight.” Williams ex rel. Williams v. Bowen, 859 F.2d 255, 258 (2d Cir. 1988). To the extent
they are supported by substantial evidence, the Commissioner’s findings of fact must be
sustained “even where substantial evidence may support the claimant’s position and despite the
fact that the [c]ourt, had it heard the evidence de novo, might have found otherwise.” Matejka v.
Barnhart, 386 F. Supp. 2d 198, 204 (W.D.N.Y. 2005) (citing Rutherford v. Schweiker, 685 F.2d
60, 62 (2d Cir. 1982), cert. denied, 459 U.S. 1212 (1983)).
A person is disabled for the purposes of SSI and disability benefits if he or she is
unable “to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable
physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or
can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.” 42 U.S.C.
§§ 423(d)(1)(A) & 1382c(a)(3)(A). In assessing whether a claimant is disabled, the ALJ must
employ a five-step sequential analysis. See Berry v. Schweiker, 675 F.2d 464, 467 (2d Cir. 1982)
(per curiam). The five steps are:
(1)
whether the claimant is currently engaged in substantial
gainful activity;
(2)
if not, whether the claimant has any “severe impairment”
that “significantly limits [the claimant’s] physical or mental
ability to do basic work activities”;
(3)
if so, whether any of the claimant’s severe impairments
meets or equals one of the impairments listed in Appendix
1 of Subpart P of Part 404 of the relevant regulations;
26
(4)
if not, whether despite the claimant’s severe impairments,
the claimant retains the residual functional capacity to
perform his past work; and
(5)
if not, whether the claimant retains the residual functional
capacity to perform any other work that exists in significant
numbers in the national economy.
20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(i)-(v) & 416.920(a)(4)(i)-(v); Berry v. Schweiker, 675 F.2d at 467.
“The claimant bears the burden of proving his or her case at steps one through four[;] . . . [a]t
step five the burden shifts to the Commissioner to ‘show there is other gainful work in the
national economy [which] the claimant could perform.’” Butts v. Barnhart, 388 F.3d at 383
(quoting Balsamo v. Chater, 142 F.3d 75, 80 (2d Cir. 1998)).
A.
The ALJ’s Decision
In his decision, the ALJ applied the required sequential analysis for evaluating
disability claims. (Tr. 25-36). Under step one, the ALJ found that Grabowski had not engaged
in substantial gainful activity since April 1, 2013, the alleged onset date. (Tr. 27). At step two,
the ALJ concluded that Grabowski had the severe impairments of anxiety and depression.
(Tr. 27-28). The ALJ further concluded that Grabowski’s complaints of fatigue, vertigo, and
diffuse musculoskeletal problems were “not medically determinable” impairments “on this
record.” (Tr. 28). At step three, the ALJ determined that Grabowski did not have an impairment
(or combination of impairments) that met or medically equaled one of the listed impairments.
(Tr. 28-29). With respect to Grabowski’s mental impairments, the ALJ found that Grabowski
suffered from mild difficulties in performing daily activities, and moderate difficulties in
maintaining social functioning, and concentration, persistence, and pace. (Tr. 28-29). The ALJ
concluded that Grabowski retained the ability to perform simple, routine and repetitive jobs at all
exertional levels, provided she was limited to low stress work (“no high production quotas or
27
fast-paced assembly lines”), no more than superficial contact with the public, and little change in
work structure or routine. (Tr. 30). The ALJ found that Grabowski could follow and understand
simple directions and instructions and perform simple tasks independently. (Id.). At step four,
the ALJ determined that Grabowski was able to perform her former work as an assembler of
small products, light exertional level, svp 2. (Tr. 35). Accordingly, the ALJ found that
Grabowski was not disabled. (Id.).
B.
Grabowski’s Contentions
Grabowski contends that the ALJ’s determination that she was not disabled is not
supported by substantial evidence and is the product of legal error. (Docket # 14). Grabowski
contends that remand is appropriate pursuant to sentence four of 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) because the
ALJ failed to meet his duty to develop the record by attempting to obtain Grabowski’s mental
health treatment records from Fitzgerald and Gawinski, the absence of which created a gap in the
record. (Id. at 21-23). Grabowski argues that the ALJ’s failure in this respect was especially
detrimental because he discounted Gawinski and Fitzgerald’s opinions on the grounds that they
were not supported by treatment notes. (Id. at 22). Grabowski further contends that remand is
also appropriate pursuant to sentence six of 42 U.S.C. § 405(g). (Id. at 18-20).
Grabowski also argues that the ALJ erred in concluding that her complaints of
chronic fatigue did not constitute a medically determinable impairment. (Id. at 28-31). In
addition to the step two challenge, Grabowski contends that the ALJ erred at step four in
determining that she could return to her prior work as an assembler of small parts because he did
not consider how stress would affect her ability to meet the demands of that position. (Id. at
23-27). Finally, Grabowski argues that the ALJ’s decision is not supported by substantial
evidence because new and material evidence submitted to the Appeals Council, namely,
28
audiological testing results, undercuts the determination that she could perform that past work.
(Id. at 27-28).
II.
Analysis
Grabowski maintains that remand is required because the ALJ failed to properly
develop the administrative record by obtaining treatment records kept by Fitzgerald and
Gawinski. (Id. at 21-23). Grabowski argues this omission created an obvious gap in the
administrative record, which “had a profound impact on the outcome of this case,” because the
absence of those treatment records led the ALJ to improperly discount the providers’ opinions
that Grabowski suffered from some substantial work-related limitations. (Id. at 21-22).
“It is well established in the Second Circuit that an ALJ is under an obligation to
develop the administrative record fully, to ensure that there are no inconsistencies in the record
that require further inquiry, and to obtain the reports of treating physicians and elicit the
appropriate testimony during the proceeding.” Martello v. Astrue, 2013 WL 1337311, *3
(W.D.N.Y. 2013). Given the non-adversarial nature of a Social Security hearing, “[t]he duty of
the ALJ, unlike that of a judge at trial, is to ‘investigate and develop the facts and develop the
arguments both for and against the granting of benefits.’” Vincent v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec., 651
F.3d 299, 305 (2d Cir. 2011) (quoting Butts, 388 F.3d at 386). Accordingly, before determining
whether the ALJ’s conclusions are supported by substantial evidence, a court must first evaluate
whether the claimant was provided a full hearing “in accordance with the beneficent purposes of
the [Social Security] Act.” Echevarria v. Sec’y of Health & Human Servs., 685 F.2d 751, 755
(2d Cir. 1982); see also Archbald v. Colvin, 2015 WL 7294555, *3 (E.D.N.Y. 2015) (“[t]he
reviewing court must ensure that ‘all of the relevant facts [are] sufficiently developed and
29
considered’”) (quoting Lamay v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec., 562 F.3d 503, 509 (2d Cir. 2009), cert.
denied, 559 U.S. 962 (2010)). The fact that a claimant is represented during the administrative
hearing does not relieve the ALJ of his duty to develop the record. See Moran v. Astrue, 569
F.3d 108, 112 (2d Cir. 2009) (“it is the well-established rule in our circuit” that such a duty exists
“[e]ven when a claimant is represented by counsel”). On the other hand, where the record
contains no obvious gaps and the ALJ possesses a “complete medical history,” no additional
efforts by the ALJ to further develop the record are required. Rosa v. Callahan, 168 F.3d 72, 79
n.5 (2d Cir. 1999).
In this case, as the ALJ himself noted at the hearing, the record did not contain
treatment records of Grabowski’s mental health treatment with Fitzgerald and Gawinski.9
(Tr. 63, 87). At the time of the hearing, Grabowski testified that she had been receiving mental
health treatment biweekly for approximately one year. (Tr. 63). After hearing that testimony,
the ALJ immediately interrupted the questioning to ask Grabowski’s representative, “Do we
have those records?” (Id.). The representative responded that the records were apparently not
included in the record evidence. (Id.). After reconfirming with Grabowski that she had been
treating every other week for a year, the ALJ stated, “I’m going to want those. . . . So I’ll hold
the record open 30 days to get those.” (Id.). At the conclusion of the hearing, the ALJ returned
to the subject of the missing treatment records, emphasizing:
I’m going to hold the record open for 30 days for receipt of the
therapist notes. I’d like to have the whole year’s worth of
treatment and all I’ve got is from 2013 in December and that’s all I
have. So if you could get those to us I’ll hold the record open. . . .
It will be a little bit longer for me to get you a decision because we
have to get the medical records.
(Tr. 87).
9
The record appears to reflect that the Commissioner never requested those records at the administrative
level. (See Tr. 92, 248).
30
Subsequent to the hearing, Grabowski’s representative submitted additional
records, which included records of four treatment sessions with Turnipseed during the fall of
2013. (Tr. 482-504). However, despite the regularity of her treatment with Fitzgerald
(biweekly) and the comparative length and recency of that treatment (the preceding nearly
twelve month period), no treatment records from Fitzgerald or Gawinski were submitted or made
part of the administrative record. Nor did Grabowski’s representative tender any explanation for
their absence or request assistance by the ALJ to obtain them.
While “[t]he Second Circuit has indicated that the ALJ may rely on the claimant’s
counsel to obtain missing evidence under some circumstances, . . . it has stopped short of holding
that the ALJ may delegate his or her duty to the claimant’s counsel.” Sotososa v. Colvin, 2016
WL 6517788, *4 (W.D.N.Y. 2016) (citing Jordan v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec., 142 F. App’x 542,
543 (2d Cir. 2005) (summary order); Frye v. Astrue, 485 F. App’x 484, 488 n.2 (2d Cir. 2012)
(summary order)). Indeed, as Chief Judge Geraci noted in Sotososa, “district courts in this
circuit have reached conflicting conclusions as to whether the ALJ satisfies that duty by relying
on the claimant’s counsel to obtain the missing evidence.” Sotososa v. Colvin, 2016 WL
6517788 at *4 (collecting cases).
I conclude that the circumstances of this case required the ALJ to do more to
attempt to obtain the missing records than rely on Grabowski’s representative. At the hearing,
the ALJ himself acknowledged the importance of obtaining and reviewing the most recent, most
regular, and most extended records of Grabowski’s mental health treatment. Certainly, he was
reasonable in directing Grabowski’s non-attorney representative to obtain the records and in
keeping the record open to accept them. However, when those records were not submitted,
despite the post-hearing submission of other records, the ALJ should have followed up with
31
Grabowski’s representative or attempted to obtain the missing records himself. See, e.g.,
Sotososa, 2016 WL 6517788 at *4 (remanding case where record did not contain notes of
claimant’s biweekly mental health treatment with provider over one-year period; “this [c]ourt
concludes that the ALJ did not satisfy his duty to develop the record even though he advised
[claimant’s] counsel to obtain the missing [mental health] treatment notes [where] [t]here is no
evidence that the ALJ followed up with [claimant’s] counsel or attempted to obtain the missing
records himself”); Ayer v. Astrue, 2012 WL 381784, *6 (D. Vt. 2012) (“[t]he ALJ’s failure to
make an effort to obtain [medical] opinions [absent from the record], beyond holding the record
open for the submission of “medical records” for thirty days after the hearing, is cause for
remand”); Curtis v. Astrue, 2012 WL 6098258, *5 (N.D.N.Y.) (concluding that the ALJ had a
duty to attempt to obtain treatment notes from physician, despite leaving the record open and
counsel’s assurance that such records would be submitted, because physician had “extended and
regular treating relationship” with claimant and physician’s opinion of claimant’s limitations
“was significantly at odds with the ALJ’s [RFC determination]”), report and recommendation
adopted, 2012 WL 6098256 (N.D.N.Y. 2012); Newsome v. Astrue, 817 F. Supp. 2d 111, 137
(E.D.N.Y. 2011) (“the fact that the ALJ requested additional information from the [p]laintiff’s
attorney and did not receive that information does not relieve the ALJ of his duty to fully
develop the record”).
Apart from the ALJ’s failure to satisfy his duty to develop the record, he also
erred by discounting the April and September 2014 opinions of Fitzgerald and Gawinski on the
grounds that they were not supported by treatment notes from them. An ALJ may not draw any
adverse inference against a claimant because of the absence of treatment notes in the
administrative record. See, e.g., Welch v. Colvin, 2016 WL 836081, *12 (W.D.N.Y. 2016)
32
(“[a]lthough not entirely clear, the ALJ’s decision suggests that he discounted or did not credit
the information in [the therapist’s] letter because her treatment notes were not contained in the
record . . . [;] [this] w[as] not [a] permissible reason[] to discount the information supplied by
[the therapist], particularly without first contacting [the therapist] or attempting to obtain her
treatment records”); Jones v. Colvin, 2015 WL 4628972, *5 (W.D.N.Y. 2015) (ALJ improperly
drew adverse inference against claimant due to lack of treating physician opinion where the ALJ
never requested an opinion from the treating physician) (citing Jermyn v. Colvin, 2015 WL
1298997, *20 (E.D.N.Y. 2015) (“[i]nstead of developing the record, the ALJ reached his RFC
conclusion based, in part, on the absence of this information in the record[;] . . . the ALJ was not
permitted to construe the silence in the record . . . as indicating support for his determination as
to [p]laintiff’s limitations”)); Curtis v. Astrue, 2012 WL 6098258 at *5 (remanding to obtain
physician’s treatment notes on grounds, among other things, that ALJ discounted physician’s
opinion because it was not supported by clinical findings). See also Gabrielsen v. Colvin, 2015
WL 4597548, *6 (S.D.N.Y. 2015) (despite change in regulations governing duty to re-contact
treating physician, “courts in the Second Circuit have concluded, citing these regulations, that the
ALJ still has an obligation to re-contact the treating physician in some cases”) (citing Selian v.
Astrue, 708 F.3d 409, 421 (2d Cir. 2013), and Ashley v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec., 2014 WL 7409594,
*4 (N.D.N.Y. 2014)).
The ALJ’s decision demonstrates that one of the reasons – indeed the first
articulated – that he accorded “little weight” to the Fitzgerald and Gawinski opinions was
because “they are not supported by treatment notes from any of the named providers.” (Tr. 34).
Moreover, the ALJ emphasized that it was “not apparent from treatment notes that any of them
actually saw or treated” Grabowski. (Id.). The ALJ was wrong. Fitzgerald and Gawinski’s
33
April 2014 opinion itself clearly reflects that Grabowski had been evaluated by Fitzgerald six
times over three months. (Tr. 346). Other treatment notes contained in the record before the
ALJ reflect that Grabowski’s mental health treatment was transferred to a female counselor,
Fitzgerald, in early 2014 and that Grabowski received regular counseling throughout that year.
(Tr. 367-99, 504-05). The ALJ’s erroneous factual statement suggests that he also discounted
the providers’ opinions on the incorrect assumption that none of them had personally evaluated
Grabowski.
If the ALJ had requested and obtained the missing records, those treatment notes
might well have altered the weight he accorded the Fitzgerald and Gawinski opinions. See, e.g.,
Bantle v. Colvin, 2017 WL 726874, *9 (W.D.N.Y. 2017) (“[a]lthough it is unclear whether
review of [mental health therapist’s] notes would have persuaded the ALJ to give greater weight
to [his] opinion, the notes would have eliminated the stated basis on which the ALJ discounted
[his] opinion – that the opinion could not be credited in the absence of the notes”). Rather than
assigning them “little weight” because they were unsupported by treatment records or evidence
that the providers were personally familiar with Grabowski, he might have given them greater
weight. Likewise, he might have altered the determination to accord “significant weight” to
some of Lin’s opinions, which he noted were “contradict[ed]” by the Fitzgerald and Gawinski
opinions. (Tr. 34). See, e.g., Bantle v. Colvin, 2017 WL 726874 at *10 (“if the ALJ had
reviewed the additional records and altered the weight he accorded to [the mental health
therapist’s] opinions, . . . the ALJ might also have altered the weights he accorded to [the
consultative examiner’s opinion]”) (citing Ryder v. Colvin¸ 2015 WL 9077628, *5 (W.D.N.Y.
2015)); Sotososa, 2016 WL 6517788 at *3 (“if the ALJ had the additional [mental health]
records before him, it is possible that he would have afforded less weight to [the consultative
34
psychiatric examiner’s] opinion and reached a different RFC determination”). A modification in
the weights assigned to the mental health opinions might also have altered the ALJ’s RFC
determination and could have affected his ultimate determination on disability. For example,
Fitzgerald and Gawinski opined that Grabowski was very limited in her ability to follow,
understand and remember simple instructions and directions, and to maintain attention and
concentration for role tasks – limitations that apparently were not accounted for in the ALJ’s
RFC.
On remand, the ALJ should attempt to obtain the missing treatment records,
consider that evidence along with the other evidence of record, reevaluate the weight assigned to
each opinion of record, and explain his reasons for discounting or rejecting any opinions.
“Because further development of the record may affect the ALJ’s determinations regarding
[Grabowski’s] credibility and capability, [Grabowski’s] remaining arguments need not be
considered at this time.”10 Girolamo v. Colvin, 2014 WL 2207993, *9 (W.D.N.Y. 2014).
CONCLUSION
Accordingly, the Commissioner’s motion for judgment on the pleadings (Docket
# 18) is DENIED, and Grabowski’s motion for judgment on the pleadings (Docket # 15) is
GRANTED to the extent that the Commissioner’s decision is reversed, and this case is
10
On remand, the ALJ may wish to clarify whether Grabowski’s treating physicians had diagnosed her
with chronic fatigue syndrome, despite the fact that she had not been evaluated by a rheumatologist, if the ALJ finds
that the treatment records are unclear on this question.
35
remanded to the Commissioner pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), sentence four, for further
administrative proceedings consistent with this decision.
IT IS SO ORDERED.
s/Marian W. Payson
MARIAN W. PAYSON
United States Magistrate Judge
Dated: Rochester, New York
September 28, 2017
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