Tommy Carl Melton v. Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration

Summary

The United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee reviewed the Commissioner of Social Security’s denial of Tommy Carl Melton’s application for Supplemental Security Income. The court held that the Administrative Law Judge properly evaluated the consultative medical opinion under 20 C.F.R. § 416.920c and that the decision was supported by substantial evidence. Plaintiff’s motion for judgment on the administrative record was denied, and the Commissioner’s decision was affirmed.

Holdings

1. The ALJ properly evaluated Dr. Leveck's opinion under the applicable regulations by addressing its supportability and consistency and reasonably finding it unpersuasive.
2. The Commissioner's decision denying SSI was supported by substantial evidence and was not the product of legal error.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the ALJ properly evaluated Dr. Leveck's medical opinion under 20 C.F.R. § 416.920c, including the supportability and consistency factors.
2. Whether substantial evidence supported the Commissioner's determination that Plaintiff was not disabled and could perform past relevant work.

Disposition

affirmed