Professionals with major medical challenges can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits when they can no longer work because of their medical challenges. Those with particularly serious medical issues, such as degenerative or progressive medical conditions or terminal illnesses, may have a straightforward SSDI claim.
Others who may need SSDI benefits may have a more complicated situation. They might have multiple medical conditions, many of which they may have endured for some time. Some people apply for SSDI benefits when a combination of medical conditions leave them unable to work.
What do those seeking SSDI benefits for multiple conditions need to know about the process?
More documentation is necessary
The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews every benefits claim on its own merit. Typically, there is no presumption that a particular applicant qualifies simply because of a major diagnosis or multiple conditions. Instead, applicants have to submit adequate medical evidence to the SSA affirming the extent of their condition and the need for disability benefits.
Those applying for SSDI benefits while dealing with multiple medical conditions typically require more extensive medical documentation. They need enough records to affirm the severity of each individual condition. They also need to present information about the overall impact of their combined medical conditions.
Applicants may need to undergo specialized testing from different doctors to affirm the presence and severity of each separate medical condition they have. They may also need to have a comprehensive medical evaluation, such as a functional capacity evaluation, that looks at their overall functional capabilities.
Professionals at the SSA tend to look at an individual’s ability to work and live independently based on the totality of their circumstances. Therefore, the more documentation there is supporting the claim that a condition affects a worker’s daily life, the better their chances of securing benefits.
Complex claims require support
It is possible to qualify for SSDI benefits based on the impact of multiple combined medical challenges with the right medical documentation. Those preparing for relatively complicated SSDI benefit claims often need help.
It can be difficult for someone struggling with challenging symptoms to objectively evaluate the strength of medical evidence. People may feel like their diagnosis or their suffering speaks for itself. Applicants often need the support of a professional to assist them with gathering evidence of their medical conditions and arranging it in a manner that makes a compelling case to the SSA.
Frequently, those with multiple medical conditions need guidance as they prepare to apply for SSDI benefits. Securing the right support can make a major difference for those with multiple medical conditions who need SSDI benefits.
