Last month, SSA became the first government agency to use the National Health Information Network. Officials say that this initiative will cut the time it takes Social Security to get medical records supporting the claims of those who file for disability benefits.

When an applicant lists certain medical facilities that use the network as treating sources, Social Security’s system automatically sends an electronic message to the hospital’s system requesting the medical record and providing the patient’s authorization. The hospital’s system automatically responds providing almost instant access to the patient’s medical records.

Officials hope that this will help speed response to the estimated 3 million claims for Social Security disability benefits that the agency expects to receive this year.

The agency suggests that it will expedite the process if applicants complete the application for disability benefits online.