copd/empysema help
 

I am looking for thoughts/advice on applying based on my copd/emphysema.
I am 53 been smoking since I was 9. Will there be any fall out if I am still a smoker?
What will the ssi want to hear from my doctor, ect.?
Also, any feelings about useing services like freedom disabilty?
THANKS

Read the 3 Stickies at the top of this forum page for very important information. Some if not all will more than likely answer your questions.

Read the info on the Disability website: http://www.ssa.gov/disability/

"The definition of disability under Social Security is different than other programs. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short-term disability.

"Disability" under Social Security is based on your inability to work. We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:

You cannot do work that you did before;
We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.

This is a strict definition of disability. Social Security program rules assume that working families have access to other resources to provide support during periods of short-term disabilities, including workers' compensation, insurance, savings and investments."


Sorry I never heard of "freedom disability."

Your best bet in my personal opinion would be to apply.




GOOD LUCK! :hug:

They will probably want your COPD staged with a pulmonary function test. The results of that would vary depending on your smoking status and I don't know how it would affect the determination.

I didn't have any problem but had just had surgery for lung cancer, they removed a lobe of my lung, the stitches tore open after surgery and I ended up losing a lot of function.

People at one of the COPD forums would likely know more about your prospects, I know some people have had some difficulty and some have had no problem being approved.

good luck,
judi

Nice to meet you!!