Sometimes people are reluctant to admit that a disabling injury or illness makes it impossible for them to work. Your job may provide the income you need to support yourself or your family, and going to work every day is probably a meaningful part of your life that you don’t want to give up.
Unfortunately, sometimes people with disabling conditions try to continue working for too long, and this can result in increased health problems. It is also not uncommon for people to avoid the medical treatment they need. This decision can not only exacerbate a disabling condition; avoiding treatment is likely to reduce your chances of receiving disability benefits.
A key thing to understand about disability benefits is that you need medical documentation when you apply. Without detailed medical records, claims for Social Security Disability benefits or Supplementary Security Income will be denied. You could have a serious medical condition that prevents you from working, but not seeking treatment prior to applying for benefits will almost certainly result in a denied application.
A main concern for many people is that medical treatment is too expensive, so they keep working to save up or they simply avoid treatment while being unable to work. There are better options, though, even if you don’t have insurance.
At the law office of Ellene Welsh, we advise our clients about medical providers who offer reduced-cost services and treat uninsured patients, and we provide information regarding lower-cost prescription drug programs.
To learn more about these matters and the application processes for SSD and SSI benefits, please see our section on the importance of treating a disabling condition.