Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that emerges when a victim’s bones become brittle and weak. It has been reported that at least 44 million people in the country over 50 years of age suffer from this condition.
So far, even though there is a high prevalence of the disease, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has not yet listed it in the disability Blue Book. Despite its absence, the listings under ‘musculoskeletal’ could be relevant to those suffering osteoporosis.
Eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSDI) Benefits for Osteoporosis
Because the commonest outcome from osteoporosis is broken bones, section 1.06 in the Blue Book refers to fractures in the lower extremities like breakages to the tibia, femur, pelvis or at least one of the tarsal bones as being eligible for Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI). If a victim of a fracture is in the situation that the injury has not healed completely and is unlikely to do within the coming 12 months, this could mean s/he may qualify for SSDI benefits and SSI, if the victim scores well in the asset tests.
Grounds for claiming SSDI benefits include the inability to walk because of a bone fracture, or the need to use an assistive device.
In order to qualify for SSDI you will need to send to the SSA a description in detail about your disease. This will include undergoing a physical examination which will look at the musculature condition and evidence of fractures. Also, your physician will need to describe your physical limitations due to the disease. You may require a radio-nuclear bone scan, CT scans, MRIs and X-rays to demonstrate the presence and progress of the osteoporosis and any fractures.
Applying For SSDI Benefits and How Much You May Receive
The value of monthly disability benefits will be dependent on your eligibility for SSDI benefits. You may also be eligible for SSI benefits if you are facing financial difficulties. SSDI benefits depend on how much income you have earned and paid into the Social Security system.
Your previous and present earnings and the number of dependents who belong to your household will be a factor in determining the amount you are likely to receive in disability payments.
You have to take part in an assets test before a calculation for disability benefits is finalized. Your present home and a single vehicle are not treated as assets for SSDI benefits. SSI can be made available to anyone who does not earn more than $943 monthly. It is more for a married couple at $1,415 per month.
You May Need to Hire a Disability Lawyer to Help You with Your Osteoporosis Claim
Because osteoporosis is not considered to be that serious, it is not easy to qualify for SSDI benefits. However, exceptions do exist when individuals suffer from a more debilitating and progressive form of osteoporosis. They may need to fight quite hard to get SSDI benefits, but help from a disability lawyer will increase the chance of winning a disability claim.
