OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services Executive Director Melinda Fruendt named Keith Tiller, from Bethany, as the new Disability Determination Services administrator beginning January 1, 2022.
DDS determines medical eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income.
The division is an integral part of Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services.
"I feel the utmost confidence in Keith in his new role as leader of this division upon the retirement of Brian Nickles," Fruendt said.
Tiller was hired DDS disability examiner in October 2001 and advanced through the ranks to lead the division.
In 2005, he led DDS' transition from paper to electronic claims processing, which resulted in his selection for a full time information technology position.
In 2010, Tiller accepted the position of deputy for disability systems integration. In this role, he directed staff in Information technology, case control, mail center, security and purchasing.
In January 2020, he was named deputy division administrator, which added oversight of human resources, budget, finance and the lead medical consultants to his existing responsibilities.
Tiller graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond with bachelor's and master's degrees in cello performance. In addition to cello, he enjoys playing guitar and is learning banjo.
Tiller and his wife Buffy also enjoy spoiling many nieces and nephews.
In 2020, DDS para-professionals, disability specialists and medical or psychological consultants served 57,110 disability claim applicants. Staff earned impressive 93.2% accuracy rate based on correct decisions about medical eligibility for disability benefits.
For more Information about DRS Disability Determination Services, visit https://oklahoma.gov/okdrs/independence/dds.html.
Apply for disability benefits online at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability
https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/, by mail or by visiting any Social Security Administration office. For more information, phone 800-772-1213 or TTY 800-325-0778 for those with hearing disabilities.
For more information about the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, visit www.okdrs.gov or phone 800-845-8476.
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Keith Tiller advanced through the ranks to become the new Disability Determination Services administrator.
For more information
Jody Harlan, DRS Communications Director
Cell: 405-203-1318
