How Caregivers Can Help Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits Because Of An Organ Transplant
Every 10 minutes, there is another name added onto the list waiting for organ transplants in the U.S. There are 20 deaths every day because of a lack of organs for transplants. Since 1988, there have been more than 700,000 organ transplants throughout the country.
Organs that can be donated after death include the liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, small intestines, and kidneys. If you are the caregiver for an individual who has undergone an organ transplant, or who is on the transplant waiting list, and they are unable to work, you may be able to help them apply for Social Security Disability benefits.
How Your Loved One Can Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits Medically
There are two different disability programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify for benefits from these programs, very specific medical criteria must be met. The medical guide, which is the Blue Book, has a variety of listings that apply to different body systems. There are listings that apply to heart conditions, lung and respiratory disorders, and other medical disorders.
Organ transplants only occur when an organ fails because of a defect, illness, or injury. When an organ has failed or is failing, it requires intensive medical care and ongoing treatment while awaiting a transplant. It is impossible to work while waiting for an organ transplant. After the transplant surgery has been completed, intensive care is needed, and anti-rejection medications are a necessity. There can be severe side effects as the body adjusts to the new organ.
If the condition causing the organ failure is in the Blue Book, your claim will be evaluated using that listing. If your specific condition doesn’t have a listing, Disability Determination Services will compare it with a similar one that is listed.
Usually, being on a transplant waiting list is enough proof to match any Blue Book organ failure listing. If the organ transplant surgery is complete, the claimant is eligible for benefits at least 12 months after surgery.
You Can Become a Designated Payee For Your Loved One
If an individual is waiting for an organ transplant, or has undergone an organ transplant, then a caregiver may be needed. That caregiver will sometimes serve as designated payee, which means they will oversee the disability benefits.
Since Social Security benefits are sent electronically, you will need to have access to the disabled individual’s bank account. You will need to keep receipts, so you can show the SSA that all funds were used for the living expenses and medical costs for the claimant.
How To Start Your Loved One’s Social Security Disability Application
For a successful disability claim, hard medical evidence is a necessity for a successful disability claim. If you are applying for disability benefits on behalf of a loved one, you will need to gather up a detailed list of medical providers with their contact information.
For help with your loved one’s claim, you may want to seek the assistance of a disability attorney. With their help, you can make sure you have as much evidence as needed to support the claim. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation today to have your loved one’s claim looked over by an attorney or advocate today!
