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!

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

abetterpilot,

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Here are a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene