Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia is one of a group of inherited disorders known as sickle cell disease. It affects the shape of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Red blood cells are usually round and flexible, so they move easily through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, some red blood cells are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These sickle cells also become rigid and sticky, which can slow or block blood flow. There’s no cure for most people with sickle cell anemia. Treatments can relieve pain and help prevent complications associated with the disease. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 7.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Sickle Cell Anemia Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with sickle cell anemia do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. First, there must be medical documentation that you have been confirmed to have a hematological disorder. This may include:
- A lab report with a definitive test that establishes that there is a hematological disorder and this report needs to be signed by a physician.
- A lab report with a definitive test that determines you have a hematological disorder that is not signed by a physician, but is accompanied by a report from your physician stating that you do indeed have the disorder.
- When there is not a lab report of a definitive test, a report from a physician that is persuasive in nature that indicates your diagnosis was confirmed by diagnostic methods or appropriate lab tests.
- The SSA will make every reasonable effort to get the results on the appropriate lab testing. However, costly, complex or invasive tests, such as bone marrow aspirations or clotting-factor proteins will not be purchased.
Looking at the category of impairments for an individual with sickle cell anemia, here are the determining factors that help the SSA determine if you are disabled:
- Painful crises that have been documented requiring either injected or IV narcotics at least 6 times within the last 12 months with at least 30 days between the episodes.
OR
- Complications of anemia requiring at least three hospital stays within the last 12 months at least 30 days apart. Each hospitalization should last a minimum of 48 hours and can include time in the ER or comprehensive sickle cell disease center immediately prior to hospitalization.
OR
- Hemoglobin measurements of 7.0 grams or less per deciliter at least three times within a 12-month period with 30 days in between the measurements.
If you meet one of the three factors, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
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 sickle cell anemia and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
