Possible Benefits despite no Diagnosis

[cman89]

I am looking at trying to get back to some sort of work, despite not having been diagnosed officially with anything save chronic sinusitis. However, I am aware that I may have to consider the fact that I would be incapable of work, plus the fact that I have obvious restrictions that make finding the appropriate job much harder. I know that there is a resource bank thread here, but I need help on "possibly" obtaining benefits despite no diagnosis. I am also hearing impaired, so I may be able to utilize that as an argument point. Located in the US.

 

[Valentijn]

@cman89 - Disability is assessed based on symptoms and limitations. The diagnostic label is less relevant. But in any case, you should be regularly seeing a doctor who is documenting your symptoms and disabilities.

 

[Alea Ishikawa]

I agree with Valentijn. It's the proof of impairment they would be looking for, regardless the label. Even if you don't meet the requirements for an ME/CFS diagnosis, you might still be under something else. Do you have any tests/assessments from your doctor that prove your disability? There should be official documentation on your condition and also your declining health, if applicable.



Keep in mind that it's not just about working some - but your ability to reliably work and receive a living wage. "Substantial," "gainful employment," I think they call it. I can work, for example, but I am limited in what I can do and for how long. That could be very important for your determination.

The Social Security website has some great ideas here and here. Beware that a tilt-table test might make you crash (i.e. be out of working order). A neurocognitive test might help?



You may want to look into Short-term Disability and see if you can get anything there, too.

 

[cman89]

I agree with Valentijn. It's the proof of impairment they would be looking for, regardless the label. Even if you don't meet the requirements for an ME/CFS diagnosis, you might still be under something else. Do you have any tests/assessments from your doctor that prove your disability? There should be official documentation on your condition and also your declining health, if applicable.



Keep in mind that it's not just about working some - but your ability to reliably work and receive a living wage. "Substantial," "gainful employment," I think they call it. I can work, for example, but I am limited in what I can do and for how long. That could be very important for your determination.

The Social Security website has some great ideas here and here. Beware that a tilt-table test might make you crash (i.e. be out of working order). A neurocognitive test might help?



You may want to look into Short-term Disability and see if you can get anything there, too.

What type of neurocognitive test?

 

[Alea Ishikawa]

The one I was given was CNSVS. It displayed various indicators, one of which was something like reaction or processing speed. It might help to prove that you'd be unable to keep up with production demand, have significantly reduced memory, etc. But you'd also need a proper doctor/specialist evaluation in conjunction with it.

I did mine through a CFS specialist for $85. The test is relatively cheap, but the specialist was not. When you do testing, just do your normal - no sweat, even if you accidentally mess up and such.

Cognitive testing is under Section II. E. here. Basically, it goes in line with any clinical evaluation that would prove severe impairment.