If you are seeking disability benefits, you must have a qualifying impairment. Although the Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a list of impairments known as the Blue Book, there are several factors involved in determining whether your application will be approved. Given the fact that the majority of initial claims are denied, it is wise to consult with an experienced disability attorney.
At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, PC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of disabled individuals throughout Texas. We are well-versed in the SSA’s list of impairments and will guide you through the lengthy and complicated claims process. Because we understand your medical and financial challenges, you will not pay any attorneys’ fees until we win benefits for you. Please contact our Fort Worth office today to schedule a free consultation.
What is the Blue Book, List of Impairments?
The SSA’s Blue Book (Disability Evaluation Under Social Security) is a list of impairments that includes specific requirements for a medical condition to be considered a disability. First, you must have a condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in your death. Also, your impairment must prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity or “SGA.”
Generally, if your condition is included in the Blue Book, then you likely qualify for benefits. The list covers the following specific body systems and impairments:
- Musculoskeletal
- Special senses (vision and hearing)
- Respiratory system
- Cardiovascular system
- Digestive system
- Genitourinary system
- Hematological (blood) system
- Skin disorders
- Endocrine disorders
- Multiple body system conditions
- Neurological conditions
- Mental impairments
- Malignant neoplastic conditions (body system cancers)
- Autoimmune system disorders
Given that it is not possible to include every potentially disabling condition, the list is only intended to be a guideline for disability examiners when making a benefits determination. There are additional criteria, however, and your claim must be supported by medical evidence in the form of records provided by your doctor. Moreover, if your condition is not included in the Blue Book, you may still be eligible for benefits if the disability examiner determines your condition is medically equivalent to a listed impairment. In any event, it takes an experienced attorney to help you understand how the list of impairments impacts your disability claim.
That’s where the Law Office of Carey Thompson comes in. When you become our client, we will take the time to explain the SSA’s Blue Book and work proactively to determine your potential disability status. You can rest assured that trustworthy advice and guidance will go a long way in helping you obtain Social Security disability benefits.
Other Factors Involved in a Disability Benefits Claim
Although the list of impairments serves as a guideline, disability examiners also consider other important factors. In addition to the medical record provided by your doctor, your claim must be supported by objective medical data gathered in a consultative exam conducted by a physician chosen by the SSA. Finally, disability examiners will assess your “residual functional capacity” to determine the degree to which your impairment imposes limitations on daily activities, such as walking, bending, and lifting.
How the Law Office of Carey Thompson Can Help With the List of Impairments
For over a decade, principal attorney Carey Thompson has helped individuals from all walks of life navigate the disability claims process. Our legal team has a working knowledge of the Blue Book and is up to date on the conditions currently included that may not have been correctly diagnosed in the past. We have also handled claims involving medical conditions that were not included in the list of impairments but were ultimately considered disabilities by the SSA.
Because the Blue Book and the medical and technical criteria for obtaining disability benefits are complicated and confusing, it is crucial to have the informed representation we provide. We will help to prepare the application and work closely with your doctor to compile the necessary medical evidence to support your claim.
Our team will also represent you in all matters before the SSA, including disability appeals and disability hearings. Although the majority of initial claims are denied, working with an experienced disability lawyer increases the likelihood of obtaining these vital benefits.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Worth Disability Attorney
If you are seeking disability benefits, the best way to protect your rights is to consult with an experienced disability attorney. At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, we are here to provide you with informed representation when you need it most. We have a well-deserved reputation as dedicated advocates of the disabled and a proven history of helping them obtain the benefits they deserve. When you become our client, you will have peace of mind knowing that our legal team is on your side. Please contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.