Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Chronic Granulocytopenia
Granulocytopenia results from a reduced number of granulocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the blood. These blood cells are responsible for protecting the body from illness and infection. There are three types of granulocytes that the body produces, including: neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. When an individual develops chronic granulocytopenia, the body does not produce these granulocytes as it should. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 7.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Chronic Granulocytopenia Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with chronic granulocytopenia do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. Chronic Granulocytopenia is specifically addressed under Section 7.15 of the SSA’s Blue Book. In order to qualify for Social Security disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income under these guidelines, an individual must be suffering from chronic granulocytopenia that has resulted in absolute neutrophil counts that are repeatedly below 1,000 cells/cubic millimeter and there must be documented recurrent systemic bacterial infections occurring at least 3 times during the 5 months prior to the adjudication of the applicant’s disability claim.
If your specific case of chronic granulocytopenia meets these exact guidelines, you will likely be able to qualify for Social Security disability benefits during the initial stage of the Social Security disability claim process, but you will need to furnish the SSA with medical evidence proving that your condition does indeed meet these published guidelines. This means supplying the Social Security Administration with a complete copy of your medical records when submitting your claim for disability benefits. These medical records should document your neutrophil counts and the number of systemic bacterial infections you have suffered over the past five months.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic granulocytopenia and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
