SSA Listing 5.06 Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and ability to work. For those seeking Social Security Disability benefits, it is essential to understand how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates IBD cases. In this blog post, we will explore the criteria outlined in listing 5.06 for IBD and the considerations made for disability purposes.
Evaluation Criteria for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The SSA employs listing 5.06 to assess disability claims related to inflammatory bowel disease. This listing consists of two subsections, each with its own set of criteria. Let's take a closer look at each subsection:
A. Obstruction of Stenotic Areas: This subsection requires documentation of obstruction in the small intestine or colon caused by stenotic areas, confirmed by appropriate medical imaging, endoscopy, biopsy, or operative findings. The obstruction should result in proximal dilatation and necessitate hospitalization for intestinal decompression or surgery. To meet this criterion, the obstruction must occur on at least two occasions, with a minimum 60-day gap, within a consecutive 6-month period.
B. Multiple Indicators of Impairment: This subsection requires the presence of at least two of the following indicators of impairment, despite ongoing prescribed treatment, occurring within the same consecutive 6-month period:
Anemia: Anemia with a hemoglobin level of less than 10.0 g/dL, confirmed by at least two evaluations at least 60 days apart.
Serum Albumin Levels: Serum albumin levels of 3.0 g/dL or less, confirmed by at least two evaluations at least 60 days apart.
Tender Abdominal Mass and Abdominal Pain: Clinically documented tender abdominal mass palpable during physical examination, accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping that is not adequately controlled by prescribed narcotic medication. These symptoms must be present on at least two evaluations at least 60 days apart.
Perineal Disease: Presence of a draining abscess or fistula in the perineal area, causing pain that is not completely managed by prescribed narcotic medication. These symptoms must be present on at least two evaluations at least 60 days apart.
Involuntary Weight Loss: Involuntary weight loss of at least 10% from baseline, computed in pounds, kilograms, or BMI. This weight loss must be confirmed by at least two evaluations at least 60 days apart.
Need for Nutritional Support: Requirement for supplemental daily enteral nutrition via a gastrostomy or daily parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter.
Navigating the Social Security Disability process for inflammatory bowel disease requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific evaluation criteria outlined in listing 5.06. Whether it involves obstruction of stenotic areas, anemia, low serum albumin levels, tender abdominal mass with pain, perineal disease, involuntary weight loss, or the need for nutritional support, meeting the criteria and providing proper documentation is crucial for disability consideration.
If you or a loved one is affected by inflammatory bowel disease and believes you meet the criteria outlined in listing 5.06, it is important to gather all relevant medical evidence and work with a qualified disability advocate or attorney. They can guide you through the disability application process, help collect the necessary documentation, and increase your chances of receiving the support you need.
Remember, understanding the evaluation process is key to presenting a strong disability claim. By doing so, you can navigate the complexities of the SSA's disability system and work towards securing the financial assistance and resources you deserve.