With more than 200 types of cancer currently and around 1.7 million new cancer cases discovered every year, it is not surprising that it is included as a covered condition in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book of recognized disabilities. However, not all cancers are included in the listings-that depends on where the cancer originates, the extent of the body’s involvement, duration and response to anti-cancer treatment and effects of post-therapeutic residuals.
As many California resident can imagine, cancer at any stage and of any type is disabling. The physical and emotional affects of the condition are in addition to the side-effects of the medicine or treatment being taken for the illness. As a result, working can become impossible while someone is trying to fight cancer. Those who are working may need to take time off for their treatment or while they are recovering from it. Those who have been treated may not be able to return to work for a number of months, if they ever can. At the same time, treating cancer is incredibly costly, with medical bills running into the thousands every month. Covering this expense can be difficult when income is consistent-without a job it can be downright impossible.
With these difficulties, getting financial assistance through Social Security Disability can be incredibly helpful. Some cancers qualify immediately, such as esophageal cancer. Others, such as breast cancer, need to have spread to other parts of the body to qualify. If the cancer has spread beyond the region of origin, is inoperable and recurrent despite treatment, the individual might be able to qualify for Compassionate Allowance, which means their application might be expedited.
Dealing with a multitude of forms and figuring out what type of evidence would best prove an ailment that someone clearly has can be overwhelming for someone struggling with their health. It might help to have an experienced professional go through the motions and try to get the application in front of the case reviewer as soon as possible.