Disability Benefits For Diabetes
When most people think about conditions that make a person eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, diabetes is not typically among the first to come to mind. While many people are able to overcome their symptoms with diet, exercise and medication, advanced cases of diabetes can lead to a number of ancillary conditions that make it nearly impossible to perform basic job functions.
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These conditions can include:
- Diabetic neuropathy in the extremities leading to impaired motor skills
- Diabetic retinopathy resulting in impaired eyesight
- Acidosis
- Loss of grip strength and balance
- The need for periodic or constant elevation of feet and legs
Reliable Lawyer Seeking Social Security Disability Benefits For Diabetes Victims
If you are living with complications from diabetes that will not allow you to work, you may be eligible to receive SSD benefits. As treatable a condition as it is for many people, initial benefit claims for diabetes are denied in a majority of cases. A compelling argument needs to be made to show the full impact of the disease on your ability to function, and the assistance of a qualified Florida attorney can be invaluable.
At The Lawrence Law Firm, we represent clients in all aspects of SSD claims. We understand how applications are reviewed, and we work to ensure that your case is presented in a way that provides the best chance of success. If you have applied for benefits and your claim has been denied, we can help you challenge the decision and represent you throughout the appeals process.
Contact One Of Our Offices In Orlando, Tampa Or Kissimmee
Discuss your case with one of our attorneys in a free, no-obligation consultation where you can get your questions answered and learn more about how we can help you. You can reach us by phone or contact us via email to schedule an appointment.
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Millions of Americans suffer from diabetes. Some people can control the disease through diet, exercise and/or insulin, while many others struggle to live a normal life. Some are completely disabled.
Social Security Disability benefits are available to people who are unable to work because of disabling diabetes.
Experienced Advocacy And Help With Medical Documentation
Did you know that diabetes has its own Listing of Impairments Section 9.08?
It is a very interesting listing because it’s so short and because it does not distinguish between Type I diabetes or Type II diabetes. Listing of Impairments – Section 9.08 Diabetes Mellitus requires:
1. Diagnosis of diabetes AND
2. Evidence of neuropathy with “significant and persistent disorganization of motor function in two extremities, resulting in sustained disturbance of gross and dexterous movements, or date and station.”
ALTERNATIVELY
3. Acidosis, which happens, on average, at least “once every two months” and which is documented by appropriate blood tests.
ALTERNATIVELY
4. Diabetic retinopathy, that results in the visual impairment at of Section 2.00 of the impairment manual. You have to have a significant loss in your peripheral vision in the better of two lines or significant loss of visual acuity in the better of two eyes.
The reality is that if you suffer from diabetes you probably aren’t going to meet a listing. That doesn’t mean you won’t get your Social Security disability benefits. Rather, a claim for Social Security disability benefits for diabetes will likely be approved on the basis of a medical vocational allowance at Hurdles 4 and 5, which are discussed in earlier blog postings.
As a review, we must take into consideration not only your diabetes but what other medical conditions you might have secondary to your diabetes. These can include hypertension, coronary artery disease, kidney problems, visual problems and neurological problems. It isn’t uncommon to see Social Security disability applicants who have neuropathies, visual problems, and even amputations, who have been denied Social Security disability benefits for diabetes or its complications.
Don’t give up! Appeal any denial of your Social Security disability benefits for diabetes and secure experience Social Security disability representation. Social Security disability benefits for diabetes can be obtained if adequate medical documentation is obtained and your physicians complete the appropriate Residual Functional Capacity form. It’s important to have representation so that you can fully develop your functional physical restrictions and limitations and how your diabetes impacts your functioning.
As you know, diabetes can cause severe damage to your vascular system, nervous system, visual system and kidney system. The Social Security Disability administration evaluates the damage to those parts of your body under the disability criteria for those specific body areas.
For example, the damage your diabetes has caused to your eyes is evaluated under the visual system.
For more information on appealing a denied claim for Social Security disability benefits for diabetes, contact Nancy Cavey, a Florida Social Security Disability Attorney.
