Chronic medical conditions can vary in severity. Some conditions affect an individual’s quality of life and ability to perform functions, yet they can continue living independently and working to support themselves.
Other conditions are so severe that maintaining gainful employment becomes impossible. Typically, conditions have to fall into that second category for people to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a high standard for total disability. Applicants must prove that they meet the standard of having an inability to perform full-time work on a regular and continuing basis.
An inability to work the same job you are used to doing is not enough to qualify for most workers, especially younger or middle-aged workers. Professionals applying for SSDI or SSI need to show that they cannot safely and consistently perform the tasks necessary for even the most basic gainful employment. Applicants seeking disability benefits need medical documentation to support their claims.
Diagnostic paperwork
In most cases, a diagnosis on its own is not enough to help an applicant obtain benefits. Many medical conditions present in a variety of manners, meaning that the condition could be more severe for one person than another. However, some conditions are universally disabling. People who have particularly severe conditions may qualify on the basis of their diagnosis if supported by medical evidence. In some cases, they may even receive faster approval because of the nature of their conditions.
Treatment plans
Medical records supporting the diagnoses can help affirm how serious their condition is. Treatment can also impact a professional’s ability to maintain gainful employment. Treatment plans and records of prior medical care are therefore important corroborating evidence for those seeking SSDI or SSI benefits.
Securing adequate medical evidence and reviewing documentation with a skilled legal team can help applicants prepare to submit their paperwork and prove their case. Most applicants benefit from professional support as they gather evidence, fill out application paperwork, and prove their case.
