Robert v. Saul

Filing 21

ORDER GRANTING 17 PLAINTIFF'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND DENYING 19 DEFENDANT'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT. This file is CLOSED. Signed by Magistrate Judge Mary K. Dimke. (SG, Case Administrator)

1

FILED IN THE
U.S. DISTRICT COURT
EASTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON

2

Jul 14, 2021

3

SEAN F. MCAVOY, CLERK

4
5

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

6

EASTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON

7 LUKE S.,1

No. 4:20-cv-05086-MKD
Plaintiff,

8
vs.
9
KILOLO KIJAKAZI, ACTING
10 COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL
SECURITY,2
11
Defendant.
12

ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFF’S
MOTION FOR SUMMARY
JUDGMENT AND DENYING
DEFENDANT’S MOTION FOR
SUMMARY JUDGMENT
ECF Nos. 19, 21

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14

1

To protect the privacy of plaintiffs in social security cases, the undersigned

15 identifies them by only their first names and the initial of their last names. See
16 LCivR 5.2(c).
17

2

Kilolo Kijakazi became the Acting Commissioner of Social Security on July 9,

18 2021. Pursuant to Rule 25(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, Kilolo
19 Kijakazi is substituted for Andrew M. Saul as the defendant in this suit. No further
20 action need be taken to continue this suit. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).
2

ORDER - 1

1

Before the Court are the parties’ cross-motions for summary judgment. ECF

2 Nos. 19, 21. The parties consented to proceed before a magistrate judge. ECF No.
3 7. The Court, having reviewed the administrative record and the parties’ briefing,
4 is fully informed. For the reasons discussed below, the Court grants Plaintiff’s
5 motion, ECF No. 19, and denies Defendant’s motion, ECF No. 21.
6
7

JURISDICTION
The Court has jurisdiction over this case pursuant to 42 U.S.C. §§ 405(g);

8 1383(c)(3).
9
10

STANDARD OF REVIEW
A district court’s review of a final decision of the Commissioner of Social

11 Security is governed by 42 U.S.C. § 405(g). The scope of review under § 405(g) is
12 limited; the Commissioner’s decision will be disturbed “only if it is not supported
13 by substantial evidence or is based on legal error.” Hill v. Astrue, 698 F.3d 1153,
14 1158 (9th Cir. 2012). “Substantial evidence” means “relevant evidence that a
15 reasonable mind might accept as adequate to support a conclusion.” Id. at 1159
16 (quotation and citation omitted). Stated differently, substantial evidence equates to
17 “more than a mere scintilla[,] but less than a preponderance.” Id. (quotation and
18 citation omitted). In determining whether the standard has been satisfied, a
19 reviewing court must consider the entire record as a whole rather than searching
20 for supporting evidence in isolation. Id.
2

ORDER - 2

1

In reviewing a denial of benefits, a district court may not substitute its

2 judgment for that of the Commissioner. Edlund v. Massanari, 253 F.3d 1152,
3 1156 (9th Cir. 2001). If the evidence in the record “is susceptible to more than one
4 rational interpretation, [the court] must uphold the ALJ’s findings if they are
5 supported by inferences reasonably drawn from the record.” Molina v. Astrue, 674
6 F.3d 1104, 1111 (9th Cir. 2012). Further, a district court “may not reverse an
7 ALJ’s decision on account of an error that is harmless.” Id. An error is harmless
8 “where it is inconsequential to the [ALJ’s] ultimate nondisability determination.”
9 Id. at 1115 (quotation and citation omitted). The party appealing the ALJ’s
10 decision generally bears the burden of establishing that it was harmed. Shinseki v.
11 Sanders, 556 U.S. 396, 409-10 (2009).
12
13

FIVE-STEP EVALUATION PROCESS
A claimant must satisfy two conditions to be considered “disabled” within

14 the meaning of the Social Security Act. First, the claimant must be “unable to
15 engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable
16 physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which
17 has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than twelve
18 months.” 42 U.S.C. §§ 423(d)(1)(A), 1382c(a)(3)(A). Second, the claimant’s
19 impairment must be “of such severity that he is not only unable to do his previous
20 work[,] but cannot, considering his age, education, and work experience, engage in
2

ORDER - 3

1 any other kind of substantial gainful work which exists in the national economy.”
2 42 U.S.C. §§ 423(d)(2)(A), 1382c(a)(3)(B).
3

The Commissioner has established a five-step sequential analysis to

4 determine whether a claimant satisfies the above criteria. See 20 C.F.R. §§
5 404.1520(a)(4)(i)-(v), 416.920(a)(4)(i)-(v). At step one, the Commissioner
6 considers the claimant’s work activity. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(i),
7 416.920(a)(4)(i). If the claimant is engaged in “substantial gainful activity,” the
8 Commissioner must find that the claimant is not disabled. 20 C.F.R. §§
9 404.1520(b), 416.920(b).
10

If the claimant is not engaged in substantial gainful activity, the analysis

11 proceeds to step two. At this step, the Commissioner considers the severity of the
12 claimant’s impairment. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(ii), 416.920(a)(4)(ii). If the
13 claimant suffers from “any impairment or combination of impairments which
14 significantly limits [his or her] physical or mental ability to do basic work
15 activities,” the analysis proceeds to step three. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(c),
16 416.920(c). If the claimant’s impairment does not satisfy this severity threshold,
17 however, the Commissioner must find that the claimant is not disabled. Id.
18

At step three, the Commissioner compares the claimant’s impairment to

19 severe impairments recognized by the Commissioner to be so severe as to preclude
20 a person from engaging in substantial gainful activity. 20 C.F.R. §§
2

ORDER - 4

1 404.1520(a)(4)(iii), 416.920(a)(4)(iii). If the impairment is as severe or more
2 severe than one of the enumerated impairments, the Commissioner must find the
3 claimant disabled and award benefits. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(d), 416.920(d).
4

If the severity of the claimant’s impairment does not meet or exceed the

5 severity of the enumerated impairments, the Commissioner must pause to assess
6 the claimant’s “residual functional capacity.” Residual functional capacity (RFC),
7 defined generally as the claimant’s ability to perform physical and mental work
8 activities on a sustained basis despite his or her limitations, 20 C.F.R. §§
9 404.1545(a)(1), 416.945(a)(1), is relevant to both the fourth and fifth steps of the
10 analysis.
11

At step four, the Commissioner considers whether, in view of the claimant’s

12 RFC, the claimant is capable of performing work that he or she has performed in
13 the past (past relevant work). 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(iv), 416.920(a)(4)(iv).
14 If the claimant is capable of performing past relevant work, the Commissioner
15 must find that the claimant is not disabled. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(f), 416.920(f).
16 If the claimant is incapable of performing such work, the analysis proceeds to step
17 five.
18

At step five, the Commissioner considers whether, in view of the claimant’s

19 RFC, the claimant is capable of performing other work in the national economy.
20 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(v), 416.920(a)(4)(v). In making this determination,
2

ORDER - 5

1 the Commissioner must also consider vocational factors such as the claimant’s age,
2 education, and past work experience. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(v),
3 416.920(a)(4)(v). If the claimant is capable of adjusting to other work, the
4 Commissioner must find that the claimant is not disabled. 20 C.F.R. §§
5 404.1520(g)(1), 416.920(g)(1). If the claimant is not capable of adjusting to other
6 work, analysis concludes with a finding that the claimant is disabled and is
7 therefore entitled to benefits. Id.
8

The claimant bears the burden of proof at steps one through four above.

9 Tackett v. Apfel, 180 F.3d 1094, 1098 (9th Cir. 1999). If the analysis proceeds to
10 step five, the burden shifts to the Commissioner to establish that 1) the claimant is
11 capable of performing other work; and 2) such work “exists in significant numbers
12 in the national economy.” 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1560(c)(2), 416.960(c)(2); Beltran v.
13 Astrue, 700 F.3d 386, 389 (9th Cir. 2012).
14
15

ALJ’S FINDINGS
On June 9, 2017, Plaintiff applied for Title II disability insurance benefits

16 and subsequently applied for Title XVI supplemental security income benefits on
17 August 7, 2017 alleging a disability onset date of September 1, 2015. Tr. 15, 84,
18 96, 197-200, 202-11. The applications were denied initially and on
19 reconsideration. Tr. 119-21, 125-37. Plaintiff appeared before an administrative
20
2

ORDER - 6

1 law judge (ALJ) on June 14, 2019. Tr. 34-83. On July 2, 2019, the ALJ denied
2 Plaintiff’s claim. Tr. 12-33.
3

At step one of the sequential evaluation process, the ALJ found Plaintiff,

4 who met the insured status requirements through March 31, 2020, has not engaged
5 in substantial gainful activity since September 1, 2015. Tr. 17. At step two, the
6 ALJ found that Plaintiff has the following severe impairments: post-traumatic
7 arthritis in bilateral hips status post left hip replacement and lumbar degenerative
8 disc disease. Id.
9

At step three, the ALJ found Plaintiff does not have an impairment or

10 combination of impairments that meets or medically equals the severity of a listed
11 impairment. Tr. 19. The ALJ then concluded that Plaintiff has the RFC to perform
12 a full range of sedentary work with the following limitations:
13

[Plaintiff] can never climb ladders, ropes, or scaffolds; he can
occasionally climb ramps and stairs; he can frequently perform all
14
other postural activities; and he needs an option to stand and stretch at
his work station for one to two minutes after every hour of sitting.
15 Tr. 20.
16

At step four, the ALJ found Plaintiff is unable to perform any past relevant

17 work. Tr. 25. At step five, the ALJ found that, considering Plaintiff’s age,
18 education, work experience, RFC, and testimony from the vocational expert, there
19 were jobs that existed in significant numbers in the national economy that Plaintiff
20 could perform, such as, document preparer, dowel inspector, and food and
2

ORDER - 7

1 beverage order clerk. Tr. 26. Therefore, the ALJ concluded Plaintiff was not
2 under a disability, as defined in the Social Security Act, from the alleged onset date
3 of September 1, 2015, through the date of the decision. Tr. 27.
4

On April 9, 2020, the Appeals Council denied review of the ALJ’s decision,

5 Tr. 1-6, making the ALJ’s decision the Commissioner’s final decision for purposes
6 of judicial review. See 42 U.S.C. § 1383(c)(3).
7
8

ISSUES
Plaintiff seeks judicial review of the Commissioner’s final decision denying

9 him disability insurance benefits under Title II and supplemental security income
10 benefits under Title XVI of the Social Security Act. Plaintiff raises the following
11 issues for review:
12

1. Whether the ALJ properly evaluated Plaintiff’s symptom claims;

13

2. Whether the ALJ properly evaluated the medical opinion evidence;

14

3. Whether the ALJ conducted a proper step-three analysis; and

15

4. Whether the ALJ conducted a proper step-five analysis.

16 ECF No. 19 at 3-4.
17
18
19

DISCUSSION
A. Plaintiff’s Symptom Claims
Plaintiff faults the ALJ for failing to rely on reasons that were clear and

20 convincing in discrediting his symptom claims. ECF No. 19 at 6-19. An ALJ
2

ORDER - 8

1 engages in a two-step analysis to determine whether to discount a claimant’s
2 testimony regarding subjective symptoms. SSR 16–3p, 2016 WL 1119029, at *2.
3 “First, the ALJ must determine whether there is objective medical evidence of an
4 underlying impairment which could reasonably be expected to produce the pain or
5 other symptoms alleged.” Molina, 674 F.3d at 1112 (quotation marks omitted).
6 “The claimant is not required to show that [the claimant’s] impairment could
7 reasonably be expected to cause the severity of the symptom [the claimant] has
8 alleged; [the claimant] need only show that it could reasonably have caused some
9 degree of the symptom.” Vasquez v. Astrue, 572 F.3d 586, 591 (9th Cir. 2009).
10

Second, “[i]f the claimant meets the first test and there is no evidence of

11 malingering, the ALJ can only reject the claimant’s testimony about the severity of
12 the symptoms if [the ALJ] gives ‘specific, clear and convincing reasons’ for the
13 rejection.” Ghanim v. Colvin, 763 F.3d 1154, 1163 (9th Cir. 2014) (citations
14 omitted). General findings are insufficient; rather, the ALJ must identify what
15 symptom claims are being discounted and what evidence undermines these claims.
16 Id. (quoting Lester, 81 F.3d at 834; Thomas v. Barnhart, 278 F.3d 947, 958 (9th
17 Cir. 2002) (requiring the ALJ to sufficiently explain why it discounted claimant’s
18 symptom claims)). “The clear and convincing [evidence] standard is the most
19 demanding required in Social Security cases.” Garrison v. Colvin, 759 F.3d 995,
20
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ORDER - 9

1 1015 (9th Cir. 2014) (quoting Moore v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec. Admin., 278 F.3d 920,
2 924 (9th Cir. 2002)).
3

Factors to be considered in evaluating the intensity, persistence, and limiting

4 effects of a claimant’s symptoms include: 1) daily activities; 2) the location,
5 duration, frequency, and intensity of pain or other symptoms; 3) factors that
6 precipitate and aggravate the symptoms; 4) the type, dosage, effectiveness, and
7 side effects of any medication an individual takes or has taken to alleviate pain or
8 other symptoms; 5) treatment, other than medication, an individual receives or has
9 received for relief of pain or other symptoms; 6) any measures other than treatment
10 an individual uses or has used to relieve pain or other symptoms; and 7) any other
11 factors concerning an individual’s functional limitations and restrictions due to
12 pain or other symptoms. SSR 16-3p, 2016 WL 1119029, at *7; 20 C.F.R. §§
13 404.1529(c), 416.929(c). The ALJ is instructed to “consider all of the evidence in
14 an individual’s record,” to “determine how symptoms limit ability to perform
15 work-related activities.” SSR 16-3p, 2016 WL 1119029, at *2.
16

The ALJ found that Plaintiff’s medically determinable impairments could

17 reasonably be expected to cause some of the alleged symptoms, but that Plaintiff’s
18 statements concerning the intensity, persistence, and limiting effects of his
19 symptoms were not entirely consistent with the evidence. Tr. 21.
20
2

ORDER - 10

1

1. Activities of Daily Living

2

The ALJ found Plaintiff’s symptom claims were inconsistent with his

3 activities of daily living. Tr. 22-23. The ALJ may consider a claimant’s activities
4 that undermine reported symptoms. Rollins v. Massanari, 261 F.3d 853, 857 (9th
5 Cir. 2001). If a claimant can spend a substantial part of the day engaged in
6 pursuits involving the performance of exertional or non-exertional functions, the
7 ALJ may find these activities inconsistent with the reported disabling symptoms.
8 Fair v. Bowen, 885 F.2d 597, 603 (9th Cir. 1989); Molina, 674 F.3d at 1113.
9 “While a claimant need not vegetate in a dark room in order to be eligible for
10 benefits, the ALJ may discount a claimant’s symptom claims when the claimant
11 reports participation in everyday activities indicating capacities that are
12 transferable to a work setting” or when activities “contradict claims of a totally
13 debilitating impairment.” Molina, 674 F.3d at 1112-13.
14

The ALJ noted that Plaintiff reported he is able to engage in a number of

15 independent activities of daily living. Tr. 22-23. However, in relying on
16 Plaintiff’s reported activities to reject Plaintiff’s claims, the ALJ significantly
17 overstated Plaintiff’s activities. The ALJ noted that Plaintiff testified to the fact he
18 is able to walk to and from the bus stop, which is between one and two blocks
19 away, three to four times a week. Tr. 22. However, Plaintiff testified that it would
20 take him six minutes to walk only two to three blocks, and he would need to rest
2

ORDER - 11

1 for 10 minutes before he could walk another two to three blocks. Tr. 64. The ALJ
2 noted Plaintiff reported he goes to the park, and when he does, he can walk on
3 grass at the park for a distance of about one block. Tr. 22. The ALJ stated
4 Plaintiff acknowledged he can walk on the grass “i.e., rough, uneven terrain.” Id.
5 However, the ALJ overstates Plaintiff’s reports; Plaintiff reported he can walk on
6 grass, but did not say he can walk on rough, uneven terrain. Tr. 64-66. Plaintiff
7 testified he rarely goes to the park, and when he does, he walks most of the
8 distance on a sidewalk, and walks on a “flat” area with grass, and when the grass
9 gets too long, he has a hard time walking on it. Tr. 64-66. Plaintiff testified if he
10 tried to walk a “short block” distance on grass, it would take around five minutes.
11 Tr. 67. Plaintiff takes the bus to go shopping and is able to shop independently
12 with the use of a pushcart. Tr. 22, 268. However, Plaintiff’s mother noted
13 Plaintiff sometimes has someone else shop for him, and stated Plaintiff cannot
14 “walk much in a store.” Tr. 277. In addition to shopping and taking public
15 transportation, the ALJ noted Plaintiff reported he was able to prepare his own
16 meals, do laundry, wash dishes, vacuum, go to church, and visit the park. Tr. 23
17 (citing Tr. 298-300). However, Plaintiff reported his mother sometimes prepares
18 dinner, and he only prepares simple meals like sandwiches, frozen dinners, and
19 snacks, Tr. 297-98, he reported handling a few chores per day before relaxing the
20
2

ORDER - 12

1 entire evening, Tr. 297, and he reported going to church only once every other
2 week, Tr. 300.
3

The ALJ also noted Plaintiff’s ability to weed whack was inconsistent with

4 his allegations. Tr. 23. Here, the ALJ again overstated Plaintiff’s activity level.
5 Plaintiff reported that he is not able to “do much yard work” as it is “too hard on
6 [his] body.” Tr. 299. The ALJ noted that Plaintiff was able to weed whack his
7 yard for four hours in April 2017, Tr. 21, 23 (citing Tr. 410-11), which was only
8 shortly after stating he could do limited yard work. See Tr. 299, 303. Plaintiff
9 argues that the ALJ relied too heavily on the weed whacking activity as Plaintiff
10 would only actually “weed whack for 15 minutes at a time and then take a break.”
11 ECF No. 19 at 9. A single incident of Plaintiff using a weed whacker is not
12 sufficient reason to reject Plaintiff’s symptom claims as inconsistent with his
13 activities. Further, Plaintiff testified that he would not have been capable of weed
14 whacking for four consecutive hours, and that he took several breaks. Tr. 73.
15 Plaintiff indicated he was sore after the work, Tr. 411, and he testified that he
16 could “barely walk” when he was done, Tr. 76. The ALJ failed to consider the
17 breaks Plaintiff took while weed whacking, and the pain it caused. Additionally,
18 when the medical expert was questioned about Plaintiff’s ability to weed whack on
19 one occasion, the expert testified he did not believe weed whacking was
20 inconsistent with the inability to ambulate effectively, as it does not require
2

ORDER - 13

1 significant exertion in terms of the gait, rather it requires shuffling slightly while
2 weed whacking, and you can take breaks. Tr. 48-49. The ALJ’s finding that
3 Plaintiff’s activities of daily living were inconsistent with his symptom claims is
4 not supported by substantial evidence.
5

2. Inconsistent Statements

6

The ALJ found Plaintiff made inconsistent statements regarding his

7 symptoms and resulting limitations. Tr. 23. In evaluating a claimant’s symptom
8 claims, an ALJ may consider the consistency of an individual’s own statements
9 made in connection with the disability-review process with any other existing
10 statements or conduct under other circumstances. Smolen v. Chater, 80 F.3d 1273,
11 1284 (9th Cir. 1996) (The ALJ may consider “ordinary techniques of credibility
12 evaluation,” such as reputation for lying, prior inconsistent statements concerning
13 symptoms, and other testimony that “appears less than candid.”). Moreover,
14 evidence that the claimant was motivated by secondary gain is sufficient to support
15 an ALJ’s rejection of testimony. Matney ex rel. Matney v. Sullivan, 981 F.2d
16 1016, 1020 (9th Cir. 1992). Therefore, the tendency to exaggerate or engage in
17 manipulative conduct during the administrative process is a permissible reason to
18 discount the credibility of the claimant’s reported symptoms. Tonapetyan v.
19 Halter, 242 F.3d 1144, 1148 (9th Cir. 2001).
20
2

ORDER - 14

1

Here, Plaintiff argues that the ALJ failed to make specific findings as to the

2 inconsistencies. ECF No. 19 at 7. The ALJ pointed to evidence such as Plaintiff’s
3 ability to walk two to three blocks as being inconsistent with Plaintiff’s allegations.
4 Tr. 24 (citing Tr. 504). However, Plaintiff has consistently reported he is able to
5 walk only two to three blocks before needing to rest. Tr. 64, 270, 504. The ALJ
6 notes Plaintiff was able to walk without an assistive device, Tr. 23, however
7 Plaintiff has consistently reported he does not need an assistive device, Tr. 271,
8 504, except to help with stairs, Tr. 302. The ALJ also noted Plaintiff reported his
9 pain was well-controlled at a November 2017 appointment. Tr. 23 (citing Tr. 583).
10 At that appointment, Plaintiff’s current medications were gabapentin, ibuprofen,
11 Tylenol extra strength, and tramadol, and even with multiple pain medications,
12 Plaintiff still rated his pain as a four, and the notes state Plaintiff “walks with
13 significantly abnormal gait but without assist device.” Tr. 583. The ALJ also
14 pointed to a May 2018 visit where Plaintiff was doing well and ambulating without
15 an assistive device, Tr. 23 (citing Tr. 533), however Plaintiff was six weeks post16 surgery on his left hip, and he was noted as still having “severe right hip arthritis
17 which alters his walk,” and the plan states Plaintiff would be actively healing for
18 six months and overall recovery is nine to 12 months. Tr. 533-34. Plaintiff’s
19 provider agreed with the plan for Plaintiff to wait one year after recovering from
20 his left hip surgery before having the right hip surgery. Tr. 534. The ALJ also
2

ORDER - 15

1 noted Plaintiff admitted he could likely do sedentary work, Tr. 22, although
2 Plaintiff stated it is a “possibility within range” that he could perform sedentary
3 work, and noted he would have back pain, would need to stand up and move, and
4 also noted he has worsening symptoms during the winter that may impact his
5 ability to work. Tr. 73. When asked if he could sit for six to eight hours for a full6 time job, Plaintiff testified the most he has done is a four-hour increment and he is
7 in pain at the end of four hours, Tr. 75. While the ALJ found Plaintiff made
8 inconsistent statements about his symptoms/limitations, the ALJ did not identify
9 what statements the reports are inconsistent with. The ALJ’s finding that Plaintiff
10 made inconsistent statements about his limitations is not supported by substantial
11 evidence.
12

3. Personal Observations of the ALJ

13

The ALJ also found Plaintiff’s symptom testimony inconsistent with his

14 observations at the hearing. Tr. 22. An ALJ’s reliance on their personal
15 observations of a claimant at the hearing has been condemned as “sit and squirm”
16 jurisprudence. Perminter v. Heckler, 765 F.2d 870, 872 (9th Cir. 1985) (citation
17 omitted). The practice has generally been met with disapproval and may not form
18
19
20
2

ORDER - 16

1 the sole basis for discounting a claimant’s symptom claims. Orn v. Astrue, 495
2 F.3d 625, 639 (9th Cir. 2007).
3

Here, the ALJ specifically noted that, although Plaintiff walked with a limp

4 into the hearing, “it was much more consistent with the mild-moderately impaired
5 gait noted by his surgeon” than other more severe ratings. Tr. 22. As this Court
6 finds the ALJ’s other reasons for rejecting Plaintiff’s symptom claims are not
7 supported by substantial evidence, the ALJ’s observations of Plaintiff’s gait is not
8 a sufficient basis for discounting Plaintiff’s symptom claims. As such, the ALJ
9 erred in relying on his own observations to reject Plaintiff’s claims.
10

4. Non-Compliance with Treatment

11

The ALJ found Plaintiff had been non-compliant with his treatment. Tr. 23.

12 “[I]n order to get benefits, an individual must follow treatment prescribed by his or
13 her physician if the treatment can restore the ability to work, unless the individual
14 has an acceptable reason for failing to follow the prescribed treatment.” Orn, 495
15 F.3d at 636-37. “A claimant’s subjective symptom testimony may be undermined
16 by an unexplained, or inadequately explained, failure to . . . follow a prescribed
17 course of treatment.” Trevizo v. Berryhill, 871 F.3d 664, 679 (9th Cir. 2017)
18 (citations omitted). Social Security Ruling 16-3p instructs that an ALJ “will not
19 find an individual’s symptoms inconsistent with the evidence in the record on this
20 basis without considering possible reasons he or she may not comply with
2

ORDER - 17

1 treatment or seek treatment consistent with the degree of his or her complaints.”
2 SSR 16-3p, 2016 WL 1119029, at *8. Acceptable reasons for failing to follow
3 prescribed treatment include the treatment being contrary to the claimant’s
4 religion, the fact that similar treatment has been tried in the past with unsuccessful
5 results, the recommended treatment being of great magnitude or unusual nature, or
6 that the treatment would involve amputation of an extremity. 20 C.F.R. §§
7 404.1530, 416.930.
8

The ALJ identified several instances in which Plaintiff was allegedly non-

9 compliant with treatment. Tr. 23. First, the ALJ found Plaintiff did not follow up
10 with his orthopedist after surgery on his left hip, and “he had no reasonable excuse
11 for failing to follow up to pursue right hip surgery.” Tr. 23. However, Plaintiff’s
12 provider planned for Plaintiff to wait 12 months after his April 2018 surgery before
13 having the second hip surgery. Tr. 53, 534. At the time of the hearing, Plaintiff
14 was 15 months passed his first surgery, and offered two reasons as to why he had
15 not yet met with his surgeon; first, Plaintiff was incarcerated for a period of time,
16 and second, he was coping with substance addiction. Tr. 55-58. Plaintiff testified
17 he contacted the surgeon’s office to notify them why he had missed the last
18 appointment, and he was waiting to be rescheduled for an appointment. Tr. 56-57.
19 Additionally, Plaintiff was referred to participate in physical therapy, Tr. 404, but
20 it was discontinued after five sessions when insurance withdrew payments, Tr.
2

ORDER - 18

1 428, and Plaintiff reported it was not helping his pain, Tr. 21, 438. The ALJ noted
2 Plaintiff did not try massage therapy, acupuncture, nor TENS treatment, however
3 the ALJ does not point to any evidence that a provider recommended Plaintiff try
4 any such treatment, Tr. 23, nor did the ALJ inquire as to whether Plaintiff has the
5 ability to get such treatment covered by insurance or otherwise pay for the
6 treatment out of pocket. There is no indication in the record that any provider
7 suggested such treatments were appropriate for his condition. The ALJ’s finding
8 that Plaintiff was non-compliant with treatment is not supported by substantial
9 evidence.
10

5. Treatment—Conservative Level

11

The ALJ found Plaintiff had pursued a conservative course of treatment and

12 thus afforded less weight to his symptom testimony. Tr. 23. Evidence of
13 “conservative treatment” is sufficient to discount a claimant’s testimony regarding
14 the severity of an impairment. Parra v. Astrue, 481 F.3d 742 (9th Cir. 2007)
15 (citing Johnson v. Shalala, 60 F.3d 1428, 1434 (9th Cir. 1995) (treating ailments
16 with an over-the-counter pain medication is evidence of conservative treatment
17 sufficient to discount a claimant’s testimony regarding the severity of an
18 impairment)); see also Tommasetti v. Astrue, 533 F.3d 1035, 1039 (9th Cir. 2008)
19 (holding that the ALJ permissibly inferred that the claimant’s “pain was not as all20 disabling as he reported in light of the fact that he did not seek an aggressive
2

ORDER - 19

1 treatment program” and “responded favorably to conservative treatment including
2 physical therapy and the use of anti-inflammatory medication, a transcutaneous
3 electrical nerve stimulation unit, and a lumbosacral corset”).
4

While the ALJ found Plaintiff pursued a conservative course of treatment,

5 Plaintiff underwent a total left hip conversion, and at the time of the hearing,
6 Plaintiff needed right hip surgery and was working on scheduling an appointment
7 to pursue the surgery. Tr. 22-23, 56-57. While the ALJ noted Plaintiff did not
8 pursue other forms of treatment, such as acupuncture, Tr. 23, there is no evidence
9 such treatment was recommended, as discussed supra. Plaintiff previously
10 managed his pain with opiate medication, but was no longer able to due to an
11 addiction. Tr. 438. The ALJ’s finding that Plaintiff pursued conservative
12 treatment is not supported by substantial evidence.
13

6. Inconsistent Objective Medical Evidence

14

The ALJ found Plaintiff’s symptom claims were inconsistent with the

15 objective medical evidence. Tr. 21-22. An ALJ may not discredit a claimant’s
16 symptom testimony and deny benefits solely because the degree of the symptoms
17 alleged is not supported by objective medical evidence. Rollins, 261 F.3d at 857;
18 Bunnell v. Sullivan, 947 F.2d 341, 346-47 (9th Cir. 1991); Fair, 885 F.2d at 601;
19 Burch, 400 F.3d at 680. However, the objective medical evidence is a relevant
20 factor, along with the medical source’s information about the claimant’s pain or
2

ORDER - 20

1 other symptoms, in determining the severity of a claimant’s symptoms and their
2 disabling effects. Rollins, 261 F.3d at 857; 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1529(c)(2),
3 416.929(c)(2).
4

Here, the ALJ found the medical evidence was not consistent with Plaintiff’s

5 symptom testimony. Tr. 22-23. The ALJ noted that “[a]lthough the objective
6 medical evidence and clinical observations show significant pathology, the clinical
7 evidence is less remarkable.” Tr. 22. The ALJ noted Plaintiff walked with a mild
8 to moderate limp, but did not use an assistive device, and he appeared in no
9 distress and only mild pain at several appointments. Id. However, several medical
10 providers have indicated that there is severe pathology in Plaintiff’s hips. Tr. 580
11 (indicating that Plaintiff has “[s]evere right hip osteoarthritis with joint space,
12 bone-on-bone appearance, marked remodeling of the femoral head acetabulum.”);
13 Tr. 515 (remarking that Plaintiff suffered from “[e]nd-stage degenerative arthritis
14 of” both hips). The medical expert testified that Plaintiff had a “very serious ski
15 accident,” which resulted in advanced arthritis, and several related issues including
16 dislocation of the right hip. Tr. 40-41. Multiple providers observed Plaintiff as
17 having an antalgic gait, including observations of the gait being “significantly
18 abnormal” and Plaintiff having “significant loss of bilateral range of motion in his
19 hips in every direction.” Tr. 400, 405, 408, 440, 450. The ALJ’s finding that
20
2

ORDER - 21

1 Plaintiff’s symptom claims are inconsistent with the objective evidence is not
2 supported by substantial evidence.
3
4

B. Medical Opinion Evidence
Plaintiff contends the ALJ erred in weighing the opinions of James

5 McKenna, M.D., and Brent Packer, M.D. ECF No. 19 at 10-13.
6

As an initial matter, for claims filed on or after March 27, 2017, new

7 regulations apply that change the framework for how an ALJ must evaluate
8 medical opinion evidence. Revisions to Rules Regarding the Evaluation of
9 Medical Evidence, 2017 WL 168819, 82 Fed. Reg. 5844-01 (Jan. 18, 2017); 20
10 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c, 416.920c. The new regulations provide that the ALJ will no
11 longer “give any specific evidentiary weight…to any medical
12 opinion(s)…” Revisions to Rules, 2017 WL 168819, 82 Fed. Reg. 5844, at 586713 68; see 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(a), 416.920c(a). Instead, an ALJ must consider
14 and evaluate the persuasiveness of all medical opinions or prior administrative
15 medical findings from medical sources. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(a) and (b),
16 416.920c(a) and (b). The factors for evaluating the persuasiveness of medical
17 opinions and prior administrative medical findings include supportability,
18 consistency, relationship with the claimant (including length of the treatment,
19 frequency of examinations, purpose of the treatment, extent of the treatment, and
20 the existence of an examination), specialization, and “other factors that tend to
2

ORDER - 22

1 support or contradict a medical opinion or prior administrative medical finding”
2 (including, but not limited to, “evidence showing a medical source has familiarity
3 with the other evidence in the claim or an understanding of our disability
4 program’s policies and evidentiary requirements”). 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(c)(1)5 (5), 416.920c(c)(1)-(5).
6

Supportability and consistency are the most important factors, and therefore

7 the ALJ is required to explain how both factors were considered. 20 C.F.R. §§
8 404.1520c(b)(2), 416.920c(b)(2). Supportability and consistency are explained in
9 the regulations:
10
11
12
13
14
15

(1) Supportability. The more relevant the objective medical evidence
and supporting explanations presented by a medical source are to
support his or her medical opinion(s) or prior administrative medical
finding(s), the more persuasive the medical opinions or prior
administrative medical finding(s) will be.
(2) Consistency. The more consistent a medical opinion(s) or prior
administrative medical finding(s) is with the evidence from other
medical sources and nonmedical sources in the claim, the more
persuasive the medical opinion(s) or prior administrative medical
finding(s) will be.

16
20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520cI(1)-(2), 416.920cI(1)-(2). The ALJ may, but is not
17
required to, explain how the other factors were considered. 20 C.F.R. §§
18
19
20
2

ORDER - 23

1 404.1520c(b)(2), 416.920c(b)(2).3 However, when two or more medical opinions
2 or prior administrative findings “about the same issue are both equally well3
4
5

3

The parties disagree over whether Ninth Circuit case law continues to be

6 controlling in light of the amended regulations. ECF No. 19, ECF No. 21, ECF No.
7 22. The Court finds resolution of this question unnecessary to the disposition of
8 this case. “It remains to be seen whether the new regulations will meaningfully
9 change how the Ninth Circuit determines the adequacy of [an] ALJ’s reasoning
10 and whether the Ninth Circuit will continue to require that an ALJ provide ‘clear
11 and convincing’ or ‘specific and legitimate reasons’ in the analysis of medical
12 opinions, or some variation of those standards.” Allen T. v. Saul, No. EDCV 1913 1066-KS, 2020 WL 3510871, at *3 (C.D. Cal. June 29, 2020) (citing Patricia F. v.
14 Saul, No. C19-5590-MAT, 2020 WL 1812233, at *3 (W.D. Wash. Apr. 9, 2020)).
15 “Nevertheless, the Court is mindful that it must defer to the new regulations, even
16 where they conflict with prior judicial precedent, unless the prior judicial
17 construction ‘follows from the unambiguous terms of the statute and thus leaves no
18 room for agency discretion.’” Allen T., at *3 (citing Nat'l Cable & Telecomms.
19 Ass'n v. Brand X Internet Services, 545 U.S. 967, 981-82 (2005); Schisler v.
20 Sullivan, 3 F.3d 563, 567-58 (2d Cir. 1993) (“New regulations at variance with
2

ORDER - 24

1 supported ... and consistent with the record ... but are not exactly the same,” the
2 ALJ is required to explain how “the other most persuasive factors in paragraphs
3 (c)(3) through (c)(5)” were considered. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(b)(3),
4 416.920c(b)(3).
5

1. Dr. McKenna

6

On June 14, 2019, Dr. McKenna, a testifying medical expert, provided an

7 opinion on Plaintiff’s condition. Tr. 39. Dr. McKenna reviewed Plaintiff’s
8 medical records contained in the record. Id. Dr. McKenna stated that Plaintiff
9 suffered from a number of conditions stemming from injuries sustained in a ski
10 accident in 2004. Tr. 40. Although Dr. McKenna opined Plaintiff was lucky to get
11 13 years of use from his repaired hips, he noted he had a total hip replacement in
12 2018. Tr. 40, 42. Among the conditions Plaintiff currently has, Dr. McKenna
13 listed “non-displaced left superior inferior pubic rami fractures,” “right hip
14 dysplasia,” and “exotropic calcification” which prevents his hip from sitting in its
15 socket. Tr. 40-41. Dr. McKenna testified that the osteoarthritis “clearly did not
16 develop overnight” and asserted he was comfortable with the concept of
17 retroactivity in this case. Tr. 45. Dr. McKenna opined that Plaintiff “has a limp
18
19 prior judicial precedents are upheld unless ‘they exceeded the Secretary’s authority
20 [or] are arbitrary and capricious.’”).
2

ORDER - 25

1 gait—an asymmetrical gait because of [his] dislocated right hip.” Tr. 42.
2 Ultimately, Dr. McKenna testified that Plaintiff was in desperate need of a right
3 hip replacement and that he, without a “shadow of a doubt,” met Listing 1.02A due
4 to his inability to ambulate effectively or walk a block with reasonable speed. Tr.
5 42-43. The ALJ found the opinion unpersuasive. Tr. 24.
6

First, the ALJ found Dr. McKenna’s opinion was not consistent with the

7 objective evidence. Tr. 24. Consistency is one of the most important factors an
8 ALJ must consider when determining how persuasive a medical opinion is. 20
9 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(b)(2) 416.920c(b)(2). The more consistent an opinion is with
10 the evidence from other sources, the more persuasive the opinion is. 20 C.F.R. §§
11 404.1520c(c)(2), 416.920c(c)(2). Specifically, the ALJ noted that the medical
12 evidence did not demonstrate Plaintiff could not effectively ambulate, relying on
13 the facts that Plaintiff “reported spending four hours weed-whacking his backyard,
14 and, while he had an antalgic gait, he did not require the use of an assistance
15 device.” Tr. 24, 411, 464, 504. However, as discussed supra, the ALJ overstated
16 Plaintiff’s activities, including the weed whacking. Further, ineffective ambulation
17 does not require the use of an assistive device, and Dr. McKenna did not opine
18 Plaintiff needs an assistive device; rather, Dr. McKenna testified Plaintiff’s hip
19 impairments prevented Plaintiff from being able to walk a block at a reasonable
20
2

ORDER - 26

1 pace over rough and uneven surfaces. Tr. 43; 20 C.F.R. pt. 404, Subpt. P., app. 1,
2 § 1.00B2b (May 21, 2020).4
3

Dr. McKenna provided a thorough explanation as to why he believed

4 Plaintiff is unable to ambulate effectively. Dr. McKenna testified there is “no
5 way” Plaintiff could walk normally with a dislocated hip. Tr. 43. While Plaintiff
6 was able to walk two to three blocks, Dr. McKenna noted the records generally do
7 not discuss the pace Plaintiff is able to walk. Tr. 46. Plaintiff is only able to walk
8 upstairs one stair at a time while holding the railing. Tr. 47. The ALJ asked Dr.
9 McKenna about medical records that indicated Plaintiff had only a mild to
10 moderately impaired gait, and a record indicating Pla intiff used a weed whacker
11 for four hours, and Dr. McKenna stated the records did not change his opinion; he
12 opined Plaintiff’s impairment is chronic, and despite Plaintiff’s ability to adapt to
13 the impairment and perform some tasks, Dr. McKenna opined it is a “very
14 crippling disease.” Tr. 44-49. Dr. McKenna noted that weed whacking does not
15 require much exertion in terms of the gait, and the ability to weed whack is not
16 necessarily inconsistent with the disabling limitations. Tr. 48-49. The ALJ’s
17
18

4

As of April 2, 2021, Listing 1.02 was removed and replaced with Listing 1.18.

19 20 C.F.R. § Pt. 404, Subpt. P, App. 1 (April 2, 2021). The Court applies the
20 Listing that was in effect at the time of the ALJ’s decision.
2

ORDER - 27

1 finding that Dr. McKenna’s opinion is inconsistent with the objective evidence is
2 not supported by substantial evidence.
3

Second, the ALJ noted Dr. McKenna failed to reconcile his opinion with

4 Plaintiff’s own reports of his abilities to walk or perform chores. Tr. 24.
5 Consistency is one of the most important factors an ALJ must consider when
6 determining how persuasive a medical opinion is. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(b)(2),
7 416.920c(b)(2). The more consistent an opinion is with the evidence from other
8 sources, the more persuasive the opinion is. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(c)(2),
9 416.920c(c)(2). As discussed supra, the ALJ overstated Plaintiff’s activities.
10 Plaintiff testified that he took several breaks while weed whacking, and he was
11 barely able to walk when he had finished. Tr. 76-77. Plaintiff reported he can only
12 walk two to three blocks before needing to stop and rest, and he has a very hard
13 time walking on stairs. Tr. 270. Plaintiff testified that he rarely goes to the park,
14 and the last time he went, he was given a ride to the park, and when he arrived he
15 was able to walk on a sidewalk and then on flat ground that had short grass to get
16 to a bench to sit. Tr. 63-66. Plaintiff testified that if the grass is too long, he has a
17 hard time walking on it. Tr. 66. Plaintiff testified he is given a ride to the grocery
18 store, and uses a pushcart or motorized cart to get around the store. Tr. 72.
19 Plaintiff’s reported ability to engage in some tasks, such as preparing a sandwich,
20 frozen food, or a complete meal once per week, Tr. 267, is not inconsistent with
2

ORDER - 28

1 Dr. McKenna’s opinion. The ALJ’s finding that Dr. McKenna’s opinion is
2 inconsistent with Plaintiff’s reported abilities is not supported by substantial
3 evidence.
4

Third, the ALJ found Dr. McKenna’s opinion was less persuasive than the

5 opinion of Alnoor Virji, MD., because Dr. Virji’s opinion was more consistent
6 with other opinions and more supported by the evidence in the record. Tr. 24.
7 “Consistency and supportability are the two most important factors when
8 considering the persuasiveness of medical opinions.” 20 C.F.R. §§
9 404.1520c(b)(2), 416.920c(b)(2). Here, the ALJ noted that Dr. Virji believed
10 Plaintiff was capable of performing sedentary work, in accordance with others who
11 reviewed and treated Plaintiff. Tr. 24 (citing Tr. 104-05, 115-16). In contrast, as
12 discussed supra, the ALJ found Dr. McKenna’s opinion was inconsistent with the
13 record. However, for the reasons discussed supra, the ALJ’s finding that Dr.
14 McKenna’s opinion was inconsistent with the objective evidence and Plaintiff’s
15 functioning is not supported by substantial evidence. As such, the ALJ’s finding
16 that Dr. Virji’s opinion is more consistent with the record than Dr. McKenna’s
17 opinion is not supported by substantial evidence.
18
19
20
2

ORDER - 29

1

2. Dr. Packer

2

On April 26, 2017, Dr. Packer, a reviewing physician,5 provided an opinion

3 on Plaintiff’s condition. Tr. 393-94. Dr. Packer opined Plaintiff was able to walk
4 less than one block and that Plaintiff met listing “1.02A due to bilateral hip and
5 spine involvement.” Tr. 393. Dr. Packer additionally opined that Plaintiff’s
6 severity rating should be raised to a five from a four for his chronic pain syndrome
7 due to “atrophy, weakness and pain that are residual to bilateral hip and L3
8 fractures/injuries with incomplete treatment.” Tr. 392-93. Finally, Dr. Packer
9 opined that the condition would persist for 12 months and the onset date was
10
11
12
13
14

5

Although Plaintiff argues Dr. Packer was an examining medical expert, ECF No.

15 19 at 13, there is no indication that Dr. Packer actually examined the Plaintiff. The
16 ALJ and the Defendant indicated Dr. Packer was only a reviewing physician. Tr.
17 25 (ALJ noting Dr. Packer as a “reviewing DSHS physician”); ECF No. 21 at 15
18 (identifying Dr. Packer as a “non-examining physician”). Dr. Packer completed a
19 questionnaire, but there is not an attached record of an examination, Tr. 390-94; as
20 such, Dr. Packer appears to be a reviewing source rather than an examining source.
2

ORDER - 30

1 consistent with the medical record. Tr. 393-94. The ALJ found Dr. Packer’s
2 opinion was not persuasive because it was not consistent with the record. Tr. 25.
3

The ALJ found that Dr. Packer’s opinion was inconsistent with medical

4 evidence that Plaintiff was able to ambulate effectively. Tr. 25. Consistency is
5 one of the most important factors an ALJ must consider when determining how
6 persuasive a medical opinion is. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(b)(2), 416.920c(b)(2).
7 The more consistent an opinion is with the evidence from other sources, the more
8 persuasive the opinion is. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c(c)(2), 416.920c(c)(2). The ALJ
9 found Plaintiff’s ability to weed whack and to walk without an assistive device was
10 inconsistent with Dr. Packer’s opinion. Tr. 25. As discussed supra, the ALJ
11 overstated Plaintiff’s activities. The Plaintiff’s ability to use a weed whacker on a
12 single occasion, during which he took multiple breaks, is not inconsistent with the
13 opinion. Further, as discussed supra, the use of an assistive device is not required
14 to meet Listing 1.02 and thus the lack of an assistive device is not inconsistent with
15 the opinion. The ALJ’s finding that Dr. Packer’s opinion is inconsistent with the
16 medical evidence is not supported by substantial evidence.
17
18

C. Step-Three
Plaintiff argues the ALJ erred in failing to find Plaintiff’s post-traumatic

19 arthritis in bilateral hips post left hip replacement met or equaled Listing 1.02A.
20 ECF No. 19 at 13-15. At step three, the ALJ must determine if a claimant’s
2

ORDER - 31

1 impairments meet or equal a listed impairment. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(a)(4)(iii),
2 416.920(a)(4)(iii). The Listing of Impairments “describes for each of the major
3 body systems impairments [which are considered] severe enough to prevent an
4 individual from doing any gainful activity, regardless of his or her age, education
5 or work experience.” 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1525, 416.925. “Listed impairments are
6 purposefully set at a high level of severity because ‘the listings were designed to
7 operate as a presumption of disability that makes further inquiry unnecessary.’”
8 Kennedy v. Colvin, 738 F.3d 1172, 1176 (9th Cir. 2013) (citing Sullivan v. Zebley,
9 493 U.S. 521, 532 (1990)). “Listed impairments set such strict standards because
10 they automatically end the five-step inquiry, before residual functional capacity is
11 even considered.” Kennedy, 738 F.3d at 1176. If a claimant meets the listed
12 criteria for disability, she will be found to be disabled. 20 C.F.R. §§
13 404.1520(a)(4)(iii), 416.920(a)(4)(iii).
14

“To meet a listed impairment, a claimant must establish that he or she meets

15 each characteristic of a listed impairment relevant to his or her claim.” Tackett,
16 180 F.3d at 1099 (emphasis in original); 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1525(d), 416.925(d).
17 “To equal a listed impairment, a claimant must establish symptoms, signs and
18 laboratory findings ‘at least equal in severity and duration’ to the characteristics of
19 a relevant listed impairment . . . .” Tackett, 180 F.3d at 1099 (emphasis in original)
20 (quoting 20 C.F.R. § 404.1526(a)); 20 C.F.R. § 416.926(a). “If a claimant suffers
2

ORDER - 32

1 from multiple impairments and none of them individually meets or equals a listed
2 impairment, the collective symptoms, signs and laboratory findings of all of the
3 claimant’s impairments will be evaluated to determine whether they meet or equal
4 the characteristics of any relevant listed impairment.” Id. However, “‘[m]edical
5 equivalence must be based on medical findings,” and “[a] generalized assertion of
6 functional problems is not enough to establish disability at step three.’” Id. at 1100
7 (quoting 20 C.F.R. § 404.1526(a)); 20 C.F.R. § 416.926(a).
8

The claimant bears the burden of establishing his impairment (or

9 combination of impairments) meets or equals the criteria of a listed impairment.
10 Burch v. Barnhart, 400 F.3d 676, 683 (9th Cir. 2005). “An adjudicator’s
11 articulation of the reason(s) why the individual is or is not disabled at a later step in
12 the sequential evaluation process will provide rationale that is sufficient for a
13 subsequent reviewer or court to determine the basis for the finding about medical
14 equivalence at step 3.” Social Security Ruling (SSR) 17-2P, 2017 WL 3928306, at
15 *4 (effective March 27, 2017).
16

Here, the ALJ found that Plaintiff’s impairments and combinations of

17 impairments did not meet or equal listing 1.02A. Tr. 19. Listing 1.02A is
18 “[c]haracterized by gross anatomical deformity . . . and chronic joint pain and
19 stiffness with signs of limitation of motion or other abnormal motion of the
20 affected joint(s), and findings on appropriate medically acceptable imaging of joint
2

ORDER - 33

1 space narrowing, bony destruction, or ankylosis of the affected joints” and
2 “[i]nvolvement of one major peripheral weight-bearing joint … resulting in
3 inability to ambulate effectively.” 20 C.F.R. Pt. 404, Subpt. P, App. 1, 1.02A.
4 Listing 1.00B2b defines the ability to ambulate effectively as:
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15

(12) Definition.

Inability to ambulate effectively means an extreme limitation of
the ability to walk; i.e., an impairment(s) that interferes very seriously with the
individual’s ability to independently initiate, sustain, or complete activities.
Ineffective ambulation is defined generally as having insufficient lower
extremity functioning (see 1.00J) to permit independent ambulation without the
use of a hand-held assistive device(s) that limits the functioning of both upper
extremities.
...
(2) To ambulate effectively, individuals must be capable of sustaining a
reasonable walking pace over a sufficient distance to be able to carry out
activities of daily living. They must have the ability to travel without
companion assistance to and from a place of employment or school.
Therefore, examples of ineffective ambulation include, but are not limited
to, the inability to walk without the use of a walker, two crutches or two
canes, the inability to walk a block at a reasonable pace on rough or uneven
surfaces, the inability to use standard public transportation, the inability to
carry out routine ambulatory activities, such as shopping and banking, and
the inability to climb a few steps at a reasonable pace with the use of a single
hand rail. The ability to walk independently about one’s home without the
use of assistive devices does not, in and of itself, constitute effective
ambulation.

16 20 C.F.R. pt. 404, Subpt. P., app. 1, § 1.00B2b.
17

The ALJ found Plaintiff does not meet or equal Listing 1.02A because

18 Plaintiff’s impairment has not led to his inability to ambulate effectively. Tr. 19.
19 Specifically, the ALJ noted Plaintiff “has not required the ongoing use of an
20 assistive device that limited functioning of both upper extremities,” nor have his
2

ORDER - 34

1 impairments impacted his ability to perform to perform fine and gross movements
2 as there is “not an extreme loss of functioning in both upper extremities.” Id.
3 However, as discussed herein, the ALJ erred in rejecting the opinions of Dr.
4 McKenna and Dr. Packer, both of whom opined Plaintiff meets a listing, and the
5 ALJ erred in rejecting Plaintiff’s symptom claims. Dr. McKenna testified that
6 imaging of Plaintiff’s hips demonstrated “profoundly advanced disease,” and that
7 Plaintiff is unable to ambulate effectively. Tr. 106-08. The ALJ erred in failing to
8 find Plaintiff meets Listing 1.02.
9
10

D. Step-Five
Plaintiff argues the ALJ erred at step five. ECF No. 19 at 16-18.

11 Specifically, Plaintiff argues that the ALJ’s failure to consider Plaintiff’s symptom
12 testimony and opinions of Drs. McKenna and Packer caused the ALJ to rely upon
13 an RFC and hypothetical that failed to include all of Plaintiff’s limitations,
14 including his inability to maintain pace, the need for additional breaks, differences
15 in absenteeism standards, and the need to stand, stretch, and walk after sitting for
16 extended periods of time. Id. at 16-17. As the case is being remanded for
17 immediate benefits on other grounds, the Court declines to address this issue.
18
19

E. Remedy
Plaintiff urges this Court to remand for an immediate award of benefits.

20 ECF No. 19 at 18. “The decision whether to remand a case for additional
2

ORDER - 35

1 evidence, or simply to award benefits is within the discretion of the court.”
2 Sprague v. Bowen, 812 F.2d 1226, 1232 (9th Cir. 1987) (citing Stone v. Heckler,
3 761 F.2d 530 (9th Cir. 1985)). When the Court reverses an ALJ’s decision for
4 error, the Court “ordinarily must remand to the agency for further proceedings.”
5 Leon v. Berryhill, 880 F.3d 1041, 1045 (9th Cir. 2017); Benecke v. Barnhart, 379
6 F.3d 587, 595 (9th Cir. 2004) (“the proper course, except in rare circumstances, is
7 to remand to the agency for additional investigation or explanation”); Treichler v.
8 Comm’r of Soc. Sec. Admin., 775 F.3d 1090, 1099 (9th Cir. 2014). However, in a
9 number of Social Security cases, the Ninth Circuit has “stated or implied that it
10 would be an abuse of discretion for a district court not to remand for an award of
11 benefits” when three conditions are met. Garrison, 759 F.3d at 1020 (citations
12 omitted). Under the credit-as-true rule, where (1) the record has been fully
13 developed and further administrative proceedings would serve no useful purpose;
14 (2) the ALJ has failed to provide legally sufficient reasons for rejecting evidence,
15 whether claimant testimony or medical opinion; and (3) if the improperly
16 discredited evidence were credited as true, the ALJ would be required to find the
17 claimant disabled on remand, the Court will remand for an award of benefits.
18 Revels v. Berryhill, 874 F.3d 648, 668 (9th Cir. 2017). Even where the three
19 prongs have been satisfied, the Court will not remand for immediate payment of
20 benefits if “the record as a whole creates serious doubt that a claimant is, in fact,
2

ORDER - 36

1 disabled.” Garrison, 759 F.3d at 1021. Here, the Court finds that each of the
2 credit-as-true factors is satisfied and that remand for the calculation and award of
3 benefits is warranted.
4

As to the first element, administrative proceedings are generally useful

5 where the record “has [not] been fully developed,” Garrison, 759 F.3d at 1020,
6 there is a need to resolve conflicts and ambiguities, Andrews, 53 F.3d at 1039, or
7 the “presentation of further evidence ... may well prove enlightening” in light of
8 the passage of time, I.N.S. v. Ventura, 537 U.S. 12, 18 (2002), Cf. Nguyen v.
9 Chater, 100 F.3d 1462, 1466-67 (9th Cir. 1996) (remanding for ALJ to apply
10 correct legal standard, to hear any additional evidence, and resolve any remaining
11 conflicts); Byrnes v. Shalala, 60 F.3d 639, 642 (9th Cir. 1995) (same); Dodrill, 12
12 F.3d at 918, 919 (9th Cir. 1993) (same); Bunnell, 947 F.2d at 348 (en banc) (same).
13 Here, multiple medical providers opined Plaintiff is disabled, and there is sufficient
14 evidence to demonstrate Plaintiff meets Listing 1.02A. Dr. McKenna testified that
15 he was comfortable with considering the concept of retroactivity in this case, given
16 evidence of end stage disease in April 2017. Tr. 41. Dr. McKenna testified that
17 there is “[n]o shadow of doubt” that Plaintiff has a listing level impairment. Tr.
18 43. When the ALJ indicated there was evidence he thought was inconsistent with
19 Plaintiff meeting a listing, such as references to Plaintiff being able to walk
20 normally, Dr. McKenna testified, “there’s no way he could walk normally with the
2

ORDER - 37

1 dislocated hip.” Tr. 43-44. Dr. McKenna also noted that despite references to
2 Plaintiff walking, there is not references to his pace, Tr. 46, and stated there is a
3 difference between walking in an office and walking at a reasonable pace for a
4 block over rough/uneven terrain, Tr. 43. When asked about Plaintiff’s ability to
5 weed whack, Dr. McKenna stated it is not known what the landscape was like, nor
6 whether Plaintiff took breaks, and that the task does not require much gait exertion.
7 Tr. 48-50. Dr. McKenna testified that despite the evidence pointed to by the ALJ,
8 such as the weed whacking, it did not change his mind that Plaintiff meets Listing
9 1.02A. Tr. 50-51. Given the evidence in file, particularly Dr. McKenna’s
10 testimony, the Court finds the record is fully developed, and any ambiguities in the
11 record regarding Plaintiff’s ability to ambulate have been resolved, and further
12 proceedings would not serve a useful purpose.
13

As discussed supra, the ALJ failed to provide legally sufficient reasons,

14 supported by substantial evidence, to reject the opinions of Dr. McKenna, Dr.
15 Packer, and Plaintiff’s symptom claims. Therefore, the second prong of the credit16 as-true rule is met. The third prong of the credit-as-true rule is satisfied because if
17 Dr. Packer’s opinion was credited as true, the ALJ would be required to find
18 Plaintiff disabled from April 6, 2017 through April 6, 2018. If Dr. McKenna’s
19 opinion or Plaintiff’s statements were credited as true, the ALJ would be required
20 to find Plaintiff disabled for the entire relevant period.
2

ORDER - 38

1

Finally, the record as a whole does not leave serious doubt as to whether

2 Plaintiff is disabled. See Garrison, 759 F.3d at 1021. While there are records that
3 mention Plaintiff had some ability to ambulate, Dr. McKenna explained that the
4 records were not necessarily inconsistent with his opinion and that despite the
5 references to Plaintiff walking or using a weed whacker, he still believed Plaintiff
6 met a listing. While there are other nondisabling opinions in file, these opinions do
7 not cast doubt as to whether Plaintiff is disabled, given the strength and
8 thoroughness of Dr. McKenna’s opinion.
9

Moreover, the credit-as-true rule is a “prophylactic measure” designed to

10 motivate the Commissioner to ensure that the record will be carefully assessed and
11 to justify “equitable concerns” about the length of time which has elapsed since a
12 claimant has filed their application. Treichler, 775 F.3d at 1100 (internal citations
13 omitted). In Vasquez, the Ninth Circuit exercised its discretion and applied the
14 “credit as true” doctrine because of Claimant’s advanced age and “severe delay” of
15 seven years in her application. Vasquez, 572 F.3d at 593-94. Here, Plaintiff
16 applied for benefits in June 2017, and has waited four years for benefits.
17 Considering the delay from the date of the application, and the record that supports
18 a finding that Plaintiff is living with a “very severe disease” that meets Listing
19 1.02A, Tr. 41-51, it is appropriate in this case for this Court to use its discretion
20 and apply the “credit as true” doctrine pursuant to Ninth Circuit precedent.
2

ORDER - 39

1
2

CONCLUSION
Having reviewed the record and the ALJ’s findings, the Court concludes the

3 ALJ’s decision is not supported by substantial evidence and is not free of harmful
4 legal error. Accordingly, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED:
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1. The District Court Executive is directed to substitute Kilol Kijakazi as
Defendant and update the docket sheet.

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2. Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment, ECF No. 19, is GRANTED.

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3. Defendant’s Motion for Summary Judgment, ECF No. 21, is DENIED.

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4. The Clerk’s Office shall enter JUDGMENT in favor of Plaintiff

10 REVERSING and REMANDING the matter to the Commissioner of Social
11 Security for immediate calculation and award of benefits.
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The District Court Executive is directed to file this Order, provide copies to

13 counsel, and CLOSE THE FILE.
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DATED July 14, 2021.

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s/Mary K. Dimke
MARY K. DIMKE
UNITED STATES MAGISTRATE JUDGE

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ORDER - 40