Hemophilia is a medical condition that affects the blood’s ability to clot properly, which can lead to excessive bleeding, both internally and externally, for any type of injury no matter how minor.
Individuals with hemophilia often experience large deep bruises, joint pain and swelling, unexplained bleeding, and blood in the urine or stool. This requires that they be extremely careful in situations that could allow them to be cut, as the bleeding can be very difficult to stop once it begins.
Because this condition can severely limit an individual’s ability to engage in certain activities, it may be possible for those with hemophilia to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. There are, however, several qualifications that must be met. Our social security disability attorneys can help you gather the evidence you need.
Medical Requirements for Obtaining Disability for Hemophilia
Fortunately, hemophilia is included in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book of impairment listings, which means it may be possible to obtain benefits if you meet the requirements of the listing.
This condition is included in section 7.08 for disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis. The listing requires that you are medically diagnosed with hemophilia. This requires:
- A laboratory report of a definitive test signed by a physician that establishes the disorder
- A laboratory report of a definitive test establishing the disorder that is not signed by a physician but includes a report from the physician stating that you have the condition
- A persuasive report from your physician stating that you have done the required tests and have the condition if you do not have a laboratory report of a definitive test
You must also have complications that have required hospitalization at least three times within the past year. These complications must have occurred at least 30 days apart before the final decision of approval or denial of benefits.
The hospitalizations must have lasted for at least 48 hours, which can include emergency treatment or comprehensive hemophilia treatment. Hospitalizations do not have to be for the same complication caused by your hemophilia.
The SSA will count complications such as anemias, embolisms, uncontrolled bleeding and thromboses. It will also count surgeries not related to your hemophilia if you required treatment with clotting-factor proteins or coagulation medication.
Qualifying for Disability if You Do Not Meet the Blue Book Requirements
The Blue Book’s requirements are stringent, which means only those with the most severe conditions will qualify for benefits.
However, if you do not meet these requirements, it does not mean you cannot obtain benefits. You can also qualify for benefits if you can prove that your hemophilia alone or combined with other conditions prevents you from being able to work.
This is called a medical-vocational allowance for which the SSA will evaluate your age, education, training, work experience, and physical and mental limitations to determine if you can hold any type of work.
If the SSA determines that you cannot return to a past job or gain any other type of employment, you will likely be approved for benefits. However, this process requires significant documentation of your medical condition and its effects on your life.
Get Help Obtaining the Benefits You Need
Obtaining disability benefits is a complicated process that will likely require that you appeal a denied claim, as most claims are denied the first time.
Our qualified disability advocates can guide you through the process, helping you build your claim and gather the necessary evidence. We are dedicated to helping you get the benefits you need.
Call 1-800-503-2000 for a free, no obligation consultation.