If you have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Because the majority of initial claims are denied, it is crucial to work with an experienced disability lawyer.
Located in Phoenix, Disability Attorneys of Arizona is a premier legal practice representing disabled individuals throughout the state. Lead attorney Kiel Roeschke and his legal team have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of the disabled who provide each client with the highest level of professional excellence.
We understand the challenges diabetes can bring, physical, emotional, and if you are unable to work, financial. When you become our client, we will take the time to determine whether you have a viable diabetes claim and help you navigate the process. Contact our office today to speak with an experienced Arizona disability lawyer.
What is diabetes mellitus?
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic medical condition in which the pancreas fails to produce sufficient amounts of insulin, causing an inability to process glucose, resulting in high blood sugar levels. There are two types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes — Also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes, this is a chronic condition that most often presents in childhood or adolescence. Individuals with this form of diabetes are unable to produce the insulin which regulates blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes requires daily monitoring of blood sugar levels and insulin injections.
- Type 2 diabetes — This form of diabetes, also called adult-onset diabetes, occurs when the body’s cells become insulin resistant and fail to process sufficient amounts of glucose. Type 2 diabetes is most common in individuals over 45, and it is associated with obesity, high blood pressure, and a sedentary lifestyle, as well as genetic factors.
Diabetes can be controlled through medication, blood sugar monitoring, diet, and lifestyle changes, however persistently high blood sugar levels may result in nerve damage (neuropathy), causing pain, numbness, burning, and tingling in the extremities. Other complications of diabetes include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Kidney problems
- Skin infections
- Vision loss
If you are suffering from diabetes and have developed a related medical condition, it takes a skilled disability attorney to protect your rights.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits for Diabetes in Arizona
Although diabetes is included in the SSA’s listing of qualifying endocrine disorders, obtaining Social Security disability benefits is challenging. If your diabetes is well-controlled with medicine, then you may not be considered disabled.
However, you may qualify for uncontrolled diabetes, related symptoms (e.g. peripheral neuropathy, poor vision), or a diabetes-related condition that is medically equivalent to a listed impairment, such as kidney failure, cardiovascular issues, or amputation of a limb.
In any event, to receive disability benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be unable to perform the duties of your prior occupation
- Have a diagnosed medical impairment that is severe enough so to prevent you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA)
- Your condition is expected to last for at least one year and/or to result in death
If you are applying for disability benefits for diabetes, it is crucial to list all your symptoms, related conditions, and diagnoses so that your claim can be fairly evaluated. Finally, children with diabetes may also qualify for disability benefits if they are frequently hospitalized for the condition and if medical records show that the child’s blood sugar levels fluctuate severely even with treatment.
How Disability Attorneys of Arizona Can Help with Your Diabetes Claim
When you consult with us, we will take the time to explain how disability benefits work and determine whether you have a valid claim. You should know that there are both technical and medical eligibility requirements for obtaining benefits.
For example, to qualify for benefits under the SSDI program, you must have paid into the Social Security system and earned sufficient work credits. On the other hand, there is no work requirement to be eligible for SSI; however, you must be able to demonstrate financial need. Our legal team will work closely with you to make sure you meet these requirements.
Ultimately, obtaining disability benefits for diabetes hinges on the medical evidence that you must provide with your claim. Our disability attorneys will work closely with your doctor to build a strong medical record that supports your claim.
You shouldn’t worry if your claim is denied, because denials are commonplace. You have a right to a disability appeal, however, and working with an experienced attorney increases your likelihood of obtaining disability benefits.
Rest assured we will work tirelessly to help you obtain the benefits you need and deserve. We are highly experienced in all aspects of the disability claims process and will leverage our skills and experience to fight for your rights.
Contact Our Experienced Arizona Disability Attorneys
If you or a loved one is suffering from diabetes, we will provide you with compassionate representation when you need it most. We offer free consultations and will not charge you any attorneys’ fees until we win benefits for you. Contact Disability Attorneys of Arizona today so we can start working on your diabetes disability claim.