COPD 101: What Is It & Is It Considered a Disability?
COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, a progressive, irreversible, and debilitating lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Because of its intensity, COPD can be disabling.
Learn about possible disability benefits of COPD when you continue reading.
What Is COPD?
COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a progressive lung disease. It is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways in the lungs, which restricts airflow and makes it difficult to breathe.
The most common cause of COPD is smoking, but other factors, such as air pollution and genetics, can also contribute to the development of the disease. While COPD cannot be reversed, it can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and medical interventions.
Is COPD a Disability?
COPD is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA has a list of medical conditions that can qualify someone for disability benefits. COPD is listed as a qualifying disability if it is severe enough to meet the SSA’s criteria. To qualify, your COPD must be severe enough to affect your ability to work or perform daily activities.
What Is the Medical Cost of COPD?
The medical cost of COPD varies depending on the severity of the disease and the treatment needed. In general, COPD can be very expensive. Costs can include medications, doctor visits, hospital stays, oxygen therapy, and more. These costs can add up quickly and can put a strain on a person’s finances.
Can You Get Social Security Disability Benefits with COPD?
For those with COPD, daily activities can become difficult or even impossible. Fortunately, it may be possible to receive Social Security Disability benefits with COPD.
First, it is important to understand the criteria for receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at a variety of factors when determining eligibility for SSD, including the severity of the condition, the applicant’s ability to work, and the applicant’s age and education. For those with COPD, the SSA will consider the impact the disease has on the applicant’s ability to work.
The SSA has established specific criteria for those with COPD to receive Social Security Disability benefits. To qualify, an applicant must have a diagnosis of COPD, and either has a forced expiratory volume (FEV1) of less than 1 liter or be unable to perform basic work activities due to the symptoms of COPD. Additionally, the applicant must meet the SSA’s definition of disability as outlined in their regulations.
In some cases, a diagnosis of COPD alone may be enough to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Those with more severe cases of COPD may qualify more easily than those with milder cases. However, even those with milder cases may be able to receive SSD if they can demonstrate that the symptoms of COPD prevent them from working.
It is important to note that the SSA does not consider smoking a disability. Therefore, those who have COPD due to smoking may have a more difficult time qualifying for SSD benefits. Additionally, the SSA may request additional tests and information to determine eligibility.
How Can You Apply for Social Security Disability with COPD?
If you think you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits due to your COPD, you will need to submit an application. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. You will need to provide information about your medical condition and any medical evidence you can provide to support your claim.
Final Thoughts
COPD is a severe and progressive lung disease. It is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration, and those with COPD may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
If you need legal help or advice about COPD and SSD, let us help you at Avard Law. With our attorneys on Social Security Disability, you can receive legal assistance with your SSD claims and cases. Give us a call for a free consultation today.