The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits to individuals with respiratory disorders and lung diseases. Obtaining these benefits can be challenging and time-consuming, so working with an experienced disability attorney is essential.
At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, P.C., we regularly help people throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area to obtain the disability benefits they need and deserve. We are keenly aware that a respiratory disorder can make it difficult for you to breathe and impact your ability to work.
When you work with us, we will guide you through all aspects of the disability claims process, from submitting your initial application to filing your disability appeal and representing you at the disability hearing if necessary.
Our firm offers free consultations and will charge no attorney fees until we obtain benefits for you. Reach out to our El Paso office today to learn how we can help.
Respiratory Disorders and Lung Diseases That Qualify for Disability Benefits in Texas
The SSA maintains a listing of qualifying impairments (the Blue Book) that covers the following respiratory conditions:
- Asthma
- Bronchiectasis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pneumoconiosis
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Respiratory failure
- Sarcoidosis
- Lung infections
- Lung transplant
- Sleep apnea
- Sleep-related breathing disorders
You qualify for benefits if you suffer from a listed respiratory condition, but the Blue Book is only a guide for disability examiners to assess claims. The SSA considers several factors when evaluating applications for respiratory disorders and lung diseases, such as:
- How long you have had lung disease
- How long your respiratory disorder is expected to last
- What treatments have been provided or could be attempted
- How you responded to the treatment
Ultimately, to qualify for disability benefits, your condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in your death and prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Filing A Respiratory Disability Claim in Arizona
To obtain disability benefits for a respiratory condition, you must file a claim with the SSA, which must include a medical report from your doctor with a diagnosis and prognosis of your lung disease. Your claim must also include medical evidence such as:
- Lab tests
- Imaging scan results
- Pulmonary function tests (spirometry)
- Record of hospitalizations and surgeries
- Treatment plan (e.g. oxygen, medication, rehabilitation)
In addition, the medical report should specify whether you have experienced side effects from any treatments. For example, individuals who take steroids to treat the symptoms of respiratory disorders often experience side effects that prevent them from working.
Respiratory disorders vary widely from patient to patient, so you must provide a thorough medical record to the SSA. That’s where our experienced disability attorneys can help. We will work closely with your doctor to gather the necessary medical evidence that supports your claim and any additional information about your specific limitations. You can depend on our experienced professionals to handle your claim with diligence and care and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Respiratory Impairments May Qualify for a Medical-Vocational Allowance
If your respiratory disorder does not meet the SSA’s criteria, you may still qualify for disability benefits under a medical-vocational allowance. These are guidelines the SSA uses to determine whether you are able to work based on your condition based on factors such as your:
- Age
- Educational background
- Work experience
- Work history
The SSA will also evaluate your residual functional capacity (RFC). This is an assessment of the maximum amount of work you can perform based on your limitations. In short, your RFC determines whether you can perform your job duties with modifications or another position entirely. In short, you may be awarded benefits if the SSA finds you unable to work under a medical-vocational allowance.
How Our Firm Can Help with Your Respiratory Disability Claim
The disability attorneys at the Law Office of Carey Thompson have comprehensive knowledge of the SSA’s list of qualifying respiratory impairments and extensive experience handling disability claims. Although the majority of initial claims are denied, working with our firm increases the prospects of your claim being approved. We are well-versed in filing disability appeals and have long-standing relationships with disability examiners who see us as dedicated advocates and honest brokers. When you become our client, we will stand by you every step of the way and protect your rights.
Contact Our Experienced Texas Disability Attorneys
If you are suffering from a respiratory disorder or lung disease, you are likely struggling to breathe, work, and lead a normal life. This is the time to call the Law Office of Carey Thompson.
We will provide you with compassionate representation and caring efficient service and get you the disability benefits to which you are entitled. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim.