Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Myelofibrosis
Myelofibrosis is an uncommon type of bone marrow cancer that disrupts your body’s normal production of blood cells. Myelofibrosis causes extensive scarring in your bone marrow, leading to severe anemia that can cause weakness and fatigue. Bone marrow scarring can also cause you to have a low number of blood-clotting cells called platelets, which increases the risk of bleeding. Myelofibrosis often causes an enlarged spleen. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 7.10 of the Blue Book.
Does Myelofibrosis Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with myelofibrosis do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. You must meet the criteria for one or more of the following:
- Chronic anemia: The specifics for evaluating chronic anemia are found in section 7.02 of the Blue Book.
- Bacterial infections: You must have at least three infections during the five month span before benefits are awarded. They must be properly documented by your doctor.
- Bone pain: This must be intractable (doctors can’t cure it) and there must be medical imaging evidence of the osteosclerosis which is causing the pain.
Additionally, the SSA may consider you disabled if your condition meets the listings for disability under one of the affected body organs or systems. In the case of myelofibrosis, the spleen and liver are the most commonly affected body organs, though the spine may be affected as well.
At a minimum, you will need to have medical documentation showing that you have been diagnosed with myelofibrosis. You will also want to include in your claims file any medical imaging tests that show the effects of the disabling condition on your body.
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 myelofibrosis and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
