Floridians who have cancer and believe they might be able to receive Social Security disability for illness need to be aware that there are numerous reasons for which they can be approved. The federal regulations allow for a claimant to potentially receive benefits if the treatments are such that they allow the claimant to meet the Listings of Impairments. The effects of the anticancer therapy will be considered to determine whether the claimant can be found disabled.
Generally, the cancer will meet the criteria in the event that the treatment is ineffective and the cancer either remains, grows worse, or comes back. If, however, there is evidence that will result in an approval for benefits, it can be made if the case record dictates it. Treatments have different effects. Some might cause certain issues for some patients while others are left unaffected. The toxicity of the therapy can vary and the following will be considered: the drugs that the patient receives; the dosage; how often the drug is administered; the plans for the continuation of the drugs being given; the extent of surgery; and the schedule and fields that are part of radiation therapy.
The Social Security Administration will also need to have a description of complications or potential negative issues from the therapy like: gastrointestinal problems; neurological problems; cardiovascular problems; and reactive mental issues. The effects of the therapy and how they might change will also be taken into account. Residual effects can be temporary, but sometimes they might result in disability for at least one year. With the possibility that the impairment precludes a person from gainful activity for that year, it is likely that there will be an approval for benefits.
It is difficult enough to be dealing with cancer without having to worry about how to make ends meet if the treatment is such that it causes a person to have significant symptoms that make it all-but impossible for them to work. This is why it is important to discuss Social Security disability with a qualified legal professional.
Source: ssa.gov, “13.00 Cancer — Adult, G. How do we consider the effects of anticancer therapy?,” accessed on Oct. 19, 2015