Will Chronic Heart Failure Be Covered Under Social Security?
When the heart becomes unable to pump blood efficiently, it cannot deliver enough oxygen to the brain, the lungs and the rest of the body. Soon any physical activity becomes a chore, and sustained activity — like working all day — is out of the question. For individuals suffering from chronic heart failure, help is out there in the form of Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.
Meeting the Standards for SSD Congestive Heart Failure Claims
The Social Security Administration's (SSA) criteria for heart failure claims are highly technical:
1. You must have a documented diagnosis of systolic failure (the part of the heart that pumps out oxygenated blood) or diastolic failure (the function that refills the pumping chamber), and be on a prescribed treatment plan.
2. You must also meet one or more of the following:
- Persistent symptoms which seriously limit the ability to perform and sustain activities of daily living
- Three or more episodes within a 12-month span of acute congestive heart failure, with fluid retention, that required hospitalization or emergency room treatment
- Inability to perform an exercise tolerance test at a specified exertion level
We Understand the System. Let Us Help You.
Our SSD benefits lawyers are conversant in the medical jargon, and can review your medical records to determine what more is needed to clear the red tape and secure benefits for you or your loved one. We work with you and your doctor to document the disabling symptoms of heart failure, including: shortness of breath, fatigue, lightheadedness, chest pains, ventricular contractions (skipping a beat), palpitations (pounding or racing heartbeat), drop in systolic pressure during exercise, or effects on the brain such as mental confusion or a wobbly gait.
The knowledgeable team at Schwartzapfel Partners P.C. can help you file or appeal your claim to get qualified for income and medical benefits as soon as possible. Our role is to make sure all evidence — including a doctor's opinion that the "stress test" is too risky — is reflected in your disability claim or appeal before a hearing judge. We have a very high success rate,* and a high level of service and commitment to our clients. Contact our New York law firm today for a free claim evaluation, even if you have already been turned down by the SSA.
Regardless of the cause of your heart failure, there are many lifestyle changes that can help you limit the damage and reclaim your life. Our attorneys and staff work with you throughout your treatment to encourage you, document your treatment regimen, and fight for the benefits you need and deserve to continue the path to recovery.
No Attorneys Fees Unless We Win. Contact Us to Learn More.
To learn more about Social Security Disability claims for heart disease, call us at 888-801-1914 or contact our New York lawyers online. We offer free initial consultations and charge no attorneys fees unless we win money and benefits for you.
*Past results do not guarantee a future outcome.
