Judge changing paper to oral hearing

I had a paper appeal penciled in for yesterday and the judge has changed it to an oral hearing. I am sick with worry, it was a paper hearing due to many chronic mental and physical conditions and the fact that i lose the plot and just cry when faced with these assessments etc. I am trying to be placed in support from wrag.
The evidence included a new drs letter disagreeing with the DWP but extensive paperwork.
Can someone tell me if this is a regular occurence? and why the judge is allowed to do this?

Hi Sharon,

This happened to a friend of mine - the panel chairman did not believe s/he could come to a decision without seeing the claimant in person. In which case, the DWP decision would have remained in operation.

You could try contact the Tribunal Service and asking if they could carry out the hearing over the phone or by Skype, if you think you could cope with that - but that would be entirely at their discretion.