Claiming Disability Benefits with Cancer

Diagnosing cancer is a daunting and often frightening experience. Many patients wonder if they can claim disability benefits following a cancer diagnosis. This guide will explore the criteria and process involved in claiming disability benefits when you are a cancer patient.

Understanding Disability and Cancer

Disability is broadly defined as a physical or mental condition that severely restricts a person's movements, senses, or activities. Oxford further defines it as a condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities. Individuals with cancer often experience a variety of physical and mental challenges that may qualify them for disability benefits.

Physical Limitations with Cancer

A cancer diagnosis can lead to numerous physical ailments that restrict daily activities. These can include urinary or bowel issues, limited mobility, and changes in physical appearance following surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The societal effects of these changes, such as difficulty in social interactions and maintaining relationships, can also contribute to a feeling of disablement. (Example: Thinking, learning, and social disabilities may arise due to the mental and physical toll of cancer treatment.)

Acquiring Disability Benefits

While a cancer diagnosis alone does not automatically qualify for disability benefits, the severity of the condition can make one eligible. If the surgical removal of a tumor leaves you permanently disabled, you can indeed claim disability benefits. However, if the cancer is treated and you can still perform work-related tasks, you would be considered temporarily disabled.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Benefits

In cases where the cancer is treatable, short-term disability benefits may be appropriate. These benefits provide temporary assistance while you recover and attempt to return to work. (Example: If your cancer is successfully treated and you can work, you would qualify for short-term disability benefits but not necessarily long-term disability benefits.)

Long-Term Benefits and Medicare

For those who are permanently disabled due to cancer, long-term disability benefits can provide ongoing financial support. Typically, disability benefits from organizations like Social Security Administration (SSA) provide substantial financial relief. Once approved for disability benefits, you have a 14-month wait period before you can begin receiving Medicare coverage, a form of government-sponsored health insurance for individuals with permanent disabilities.

Medicare covers many aspects of home health and hospice care, including 100% coverage of home health and hospice services. This includes everything needed for in-home care, such as lift chairs, hospital beds, and other medical devices. During the 14-month wait period for Medicare, patients are responsible for a portion of their medical expenses, including a 5% coinsurance for covered prescriptions.

While cancer treatment can be demanding, understanding and navigating the eligibility criteria for disability benefits can provide financial and emotional support during a challenging time. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term disability benefits, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals and disability claims experts to ensure you receive the best possible assistance.