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The residual functioning capacity test for disability benefits
Although the Social Security Administration maintains a listing of conditions, disorders and injuries that may qualify for disability benefits, many individuals considering applying for disability benefits might still have questions.
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Even seriously disabled applicants may need an attorney
The Social Security Administration has a comprehensive listing of physical and mental impairments in a publication called the Blue Book. However, the SSA also recognizes that certain impairments are so serious that they almost inevitably qualify for Social Security disability insurance assistance.
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Social Security disability programs remain a vital lifeline
A doctor may diagnose a patient with a disability and propose a response protocol. However, a patient’s response to any treatment plan will require extensive notes. Each visit requires updates to a patient’s medical record. That task can quickly generate extensive medical documentation and records, especially where multiple health professionals are involved, such as physical therapists, chiropractors, dieticians and nurses.
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Mental health issues during the holidays -- and beyond
Some experts disagree with the conventional belief that diagnoses of clinical depression and anxiety increase over the holidays. In fact, a 2012 study at a major university’s public policy center actually indicated that suicide rates were highest in the spring and summer.
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More changes coming for the Social Security disability program
In our last post, we discussed an administrative change announced by the Social Security disability insurance program. That post focused on the new oversight of disability judges hearing SSDI appeals. In this post, we explore several additional changes that have a more direct impact on individual SSDI applicants.
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Disability judges to be watched more closely in 2014
For many Americans, the start of a new year is an opportunity to recommit to lapsed goals or to tackle new ones. Yet new resolutions are not limited to individual goals. Lawmakers can also use this time to reevaluate policies.
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Autism study finds additional disorder in one ethnic group
Readers of this disability benefits blog know that federal assistance programs are available for both children and adults. Certain disabilities may be developmental or genetic, and prevent an individual from ever acquiring an adequate work history -- which is needed to qualify for Social Security disability insurance. For such individuals, programs like Supplemental Security Income may be the answer.
Continue reading Autism study finds additional disorder in one ethnic group
Does marijuana use impact brain physiology?
As more American jurisdictions legalize the medicinal use of marijuana, a recent study about the possible adverse effects of the substance on brain functioning may be of particular interest to readers.
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Workplace diversity creates more demand for disability benefits
There’s no denying that the landscape of America’s workplaces has changed since the 1970s. Welcoming diversity in race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation and other categories has helped to revitalize and maximize the collective workforce potential.
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Cerebral palsy and varying levels of functioning
A recent profile of a 12-year-old boy living with cerebral palsy provides context for current treatment and living adaptions available to people with disabilities. While doctors may not yet have found a cure, the improved functionality offered by recent medical and technological advances is notable.
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