The Social Security Disability application process is anything but simple and straightforward. The initial application process involves countless forms and takes three to four months to complete. Unfortunately, this stage of the application process is usually just the beginning of the battle for most Social Security Disability applicants. Nearly 70 percent of all initial applications are denied by the Social Security Administration, resulting in an applicant's need to appeal the SSA's decision to deny disability benefits. This process can take more than two years for some applicants to complete.
In some cases, it is impossible for a disability applicant to wait years or even just a few months for a disability application to be approved. What happens when a condition is so severe that a claim for benefits warrants immediate attention from the Social Security Administration? Fortunately, the Social Security Administration has acknowledged that certain conditions should be given special consideration in regards to disability claims. As a result, they implemented the Compassionate Allowances program in 2008.
The Compassionate Allowances program allows for faster approvals for some of the applicants who are in desperate need of Social Security Disability benefits. There are 88 conditions that qualify a disability claim for processing under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances guidelines. Lethal type junctional epidermolysis bullosa is one of the conditions that fall under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances listings. If your child has been diagnosed with this condition, the following information will provide you with guidance as to how you can increase your chances of being quickly approved for disability benefits under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines.
Back to top
Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa, Lethal Type - Condition and Symptoms
Lethal type junctional epidermolysis bullosa, also known as JEB or Herlitz form junctional epidermolysis bullosa, is a rare genetic condition that results in a generalized blistering of the skin. The blisters occur as a result of minor trauma, scratches or even just minor friction to the skin. Something as simple as friction from a sweater can result in an outbreak of serious blisters that can lead to infection and serious, life-threatening complications.
The symptoms of lethal type junctional epidermolysis bullosa include skin blisters around the mouth, nostrils, fingers, eyes, hands, elbows, feet, and legs. These blisters are often found in conjunction with tissue enlargement and bumpy areas on the skin. The condition can also affect the lungs, resulting in hoarseness, cough and other respiratory complications.
Most cases of junctional epidermolysis bullosa are very severe. In the lethal form, the large and ulcerated blisters that occur can be life-threatening. This is usually due to complications arising from infection of the affected area. Blisters affecting the upper airways, stomach, intestines, esophagus and urogenital system can also be life-threatening to patients who are born with this condition.
If a doctor suspects a case of junctional epidermolysis bullosa, he or she will run a battery of tests including skin biopsies, blood tests, wound cultures, an upper endoscopy and genetic testing. Unfortunately there is currently no cure for the condition. When treating a patient for junctional epidermolysis bullosa, the treatment methods will be supportive and will address the symptoms of the condition. Daily wound care, pain medications and skin grafts are often provided to patients who suffer from junctional epidermolylsis bullosa. Most of the patients who are diagnosed with the condition will not survive infancy due to the complications caused by the disease.
Back to top
Filing for Social Security Disability with Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa, Lethal Type
Having a child that has been diagnosed with junctional epidermolysis bullosa can be a devastating experience. In many cases, a parent will be unable to work due to the needs of the child. The resulting lack of income is only compounded by mounting disability-related medical bills. Fortunately, disability benefits can help offset the financial burden that is caused by the condition.
If your child has been diagnosed with junctional epidermolysis bullosa you should apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as possible. When submitting your application you should provide a complete copy of your child's medical records including any lab results, treatment histories and written statements provided by your child's treating physicians. These documents will help support your disability claim and will ensure a quick and hassle-free approval of your Social Security Disability benefits.
Back to top
Your Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa Social Security Disability Case
Many Social Security Disability applications who apply for benefits due to a condition that qualifies under the SSA's Compassionate Allowances listings assume that their benefits will be automatically approved by the SSA. Unfortunately, this is not always how the system works. You will need to provide the SSA with the proper supporting evidence and will need to ensure that the disability examiner reviewing your claim understands how your child's condition qualifies for processing under the Compassionate Allowances guidelines. Because of this, you should consider hiring a disability attorney or advocate to assist you in your Social Security Disability claim.
When you work with a qualified advocate or attorney, he or she will help you gather the medical evidence needed to support your Social Security Disability claim. This professional will also ensure that your application is submitted in the best light possible to the SSA, making it clear to the adjudicator who is reviewing your file how your child's condition qualifies your disability.
Back to top