Cystic fibrosis is a debilitating disease that can have a tremendous impact on a Floridian’s life. The disease can prevent a sufferer from living a normal life and preclude any possibility of obtaining and maintaining employment. Medical expenses and lost wages may leave the patient and their family with financial troubles that can be long-lasting, especially as the need for long-term care may be very real. These individuals may turn to the Social Security disability system for help, but in order to be successful in their pursuit of compensation, they need to prove their condition qualifies for SSD benefits.
The first step to a successful SSD claim is to prove to the Social Security Administration that the disease has been confirmed. Typically, confirmation is made by a sweat sodium concentration analysis that shows heightened levels. Alternatively, a chloride concentration that is elevated and accompanied by a number of conditions can confirm cystic fibrosis. These accompanying conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, negatively affected pancreatic function, or a family history.
It is also important that these confirmation tests be conducted in accordance with the SSA’s standards. For example, there are only two acceptable ways in which the sweat test can be conducted. The sweat must be analysed using acceptable quantitative laboratory methods. This sounds like a lot of scientific jargon, but it is critical to meeting the government’s requirements so that benefits can be obtained.
There are many elements to a successful Social Security disability claim. Failing to adequately address them could lead to a denied claim and more financial hardship. Thus, those thinking about filing an initial claim or appealing a denied claim need to leave no stone unturned when preparing to move forward.
Source: Social Security Administration, “3.00 Respiratory System – Adult,” accessed on Sep. 5, 2016
