Chronic Idiopathic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction (CIIPO) is a rare digestive disorder in which food, air, fluid, and stool do not move through the gastrointestinal tract normally. Physical abnormalities and injuries can cause this disorder.
No matter the cause, it is qualified for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is additionally qualified for expedited review under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program.
Disability Benefit Programs
The SSA administers two disability programs for which you may qualify with CIIPO:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – designed for disabled workers with work credits from their previous employment.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – designed for any disabled person of any age, regardless of work history. There are however income and financial resources limitations for this program.
Because CIIPO can be congenital, meaning it may be present from birth, many who suffer from it are children. Adults that have had the condition since birth are often unable to get a job. A lack of work history in these cases means SSDI benefits are not available, but SSI may still be.
Compassionate Allowances
The CAL program significantly decreases the wait for a decision on a disability claim. Standard applications can take months, sometimes even years, but CAL applicants often have a decision in just a few weeks.
There are no special forms to complete when applying. Actually, CAL minimizes the medical evidence necessary. You must still apply as normal though, and provide thorough details on your application and all the appropriate medical evidence.
Required Medical Evidence for Chronic Idiopathic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction
CAL applications can be approved with minimal medical records. For CIIPO, the bare minimum evidence necessary includes:
- A clinical history
- Examination reports, noting the diagnostic features and physical findings
- Imaging results, like x-rays, ultrasounds, CAT scans, MRIs, or RAD scans, documenting the lack of an obstruction and other physical features confirming the diagnosis
Although the SSA can approve an application based solely on the evidence listed above, the disability determinations specialist assigned to your claim may also consult listing in the Blue Book to confirm your records match the severity level required for disability.
The Blue Book is a manual of impairments that also lists the evidence requirements for each disability. Several listings in the book may be reviewed while the SSA considers your claim. These include:
- Section 5.08
- Section 105.08 A and B
- Section 105.10
It is a good idea for you and your doctor to review these listings and ensure your medical records reflect the necessary details for getting disability.
Submitting an Application
Whether submitting an SSI or SSDI application, you can get help from the SSA by applying in person. In person interviews at the local office can be scheduled by calling 1-800-772-1213. SSI applications must be done this way.
SSDI, on the other hand, can be submitted online via the SSA’s website. If you apply in this manner though, send copies of your medical records to the local office just after sending your online application. This will speed things up a bit with the review.
Although it’s uncommon for SSD claims based on Chronic Idiopathic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction to be denied, it can happen. A Social Security attorney or advocate can help with your application and can also handle a denial appeal, if one is required.
