Does Multiple Sclerosis Qualify for SSDI Benefits?

Does Multiple Sclerosis Qualify for SSDI Benefits?

Multiple sclerosis may qualify for SSDI benefits from Social Security. Medical evidence provided via a medical record analysis is vital for claim approval.

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Social security disability benefits (SSDI) are paid for a number of impairments; it is important that the disability is established through a medical record analysis. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one such disability which would qualify for disability benefits from the SSA (Social Security Administration). SSA recognizes MS as an impairment or chronic illness that can cause severe disability that prevents a person from working and earning an income. This condition affects women more than men and commonly occurs in ages 20 through 40. However, it can occur at any age. There is no conclusive test for MS though a neurological exam can identify characteristic symptoms of this condition. There is no known cure for MS and patients are treated with medication to slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms.

Physical therapy, speech therapy, and assistive devices may be prescribed alongside lifestyle modifications such as minimizing stress and fatigue and following a good exercise program.

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis that could make you eligible for SSDI benefits? 

Difficulty with walking and other motor skills

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Poor vision

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Difficulty to concentrate on or complete simple tasks

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Memory problems

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Extreme fatigue in spite of getting sufficient sleep

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Speech impairment

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Side effects caused by certain medications

Some MS patients may not display any or have only minimal functional limitations and may be able to continue working for some time even after their diagnosis. Others may find this disease to be totally debilitating, and when the disease progresses it will completely affect their ability to engage in their present work or even in some type of other work. Just because you are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, you will not be awarded benefits. The SSA would consider your residual functional capacity, i.e. what you are able to do despite the limitations of you MS, and your ability to perform substantial gainful activity.

Multiple sclerosis is listed under Section 11, the neurological section of the social security disability list of impairments and people with MS are evaluated under it. This listing provides information on the following aspects: 

The qualifications criteria required to satisfy the severity requirement of the condition if the affected person has motor function limitations or disorganization.

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The criteria necessary for a medical approval based on visual or mental impairments caused by MS.

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The criteria required for an approval based on muscle weakness for people who do not have muscle weakness/motor function disorganization whey they are at rest, but develop these conditions when they are tired from activity.

Though it is very difficult to meet the severity requirements set forth by the SSA for MS, patients may still be approved for the benefits if they have severe functional limitations that prevent them from performing substantial gainful activity or SGA. They could be medically approved for disability benefits via a “medical vocational allowance.” For this type of approval, social security would consider your age, residual functional capacity, education, and ability to perform your past work or some other work. If your MS prevents you from doing any past work or any other kind of work, you could be approved for SSDI. As providers of medical review solutions for social security disability attorneys, we understand that a person who has multiple sclerosis should file for either SSDI or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) if his/her condition restrains their ability to work. Since the disability evaluation process is quite long, you must apply as soon as possible to minimize any delay.

Medical evidence is crucial to establish MS and get the disability claim approved. A medical chart review should show a MS diagnosis. If any tests were done such as an MRI, nerve function study, or lumbar puncture, evidence of these should be provided. Importantly, medical records that document how the MS affects you (doctor’s notes showing that you suffer from symptoms such as fatigue or dizziness) and other test results or medical records should be submitted along with the claim. Applicants can benefit from the services of a social security disability attorney who will ensure that all relevant medical evidence is gathered with the support of efficient medical record review services.

www.mosmedicalrecordreview.com

918-221-7791