SSA Listing 6.05 Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious condition that affects the kidney's ability to function properly, leading to various complications and impairments. If you or a loved one has CKD and are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, it is crucial to understand how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates these cases. In this blog post, we will explore the specific criteria outlined in listing 6.05 and the considerations made for disability purposes.
Evaluation Criteria for Chronic Kidney Disease
The SSA utilizes listing 6.05 to assess disability claims related to CKD. The listing includes the following criteria for consideration:
A. Reduced Glomerular Filtration: The individual must have evidence of reduced glomerular filtration, which is determined by specific laboratory findings documented on at least two occasions at least 90 days apart during a consecutive 12-month period. These laboratory findings include:
Serum Creatinine: A serum creatinine level of 4 mg/dL or greater.
Creatinine Clearance: A creatinine clearance rate of 20 ml/min or less.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): An estimated glomerular filtration rate of 20 ml/min/1.73m² or less.
B. Additional Impairment Criteria: In addition to the reduced glomerular filtration, the individual must have one of the following conditions:
Renal Osteodystrophy: Severe bone pain and imaging studies documenting bone abnormalities, such as osteitis fibrosa, osteomalacia, or pathologic fractures.
Peripheral Neuropathy: Documented peripheral neuropathy as a result of CKD.
Fluid Overload Syndrome: Documented signs of fluid overload syndrome, including either:
Diastolic Hypertension: Diastolic blood pressure equal to or greater than 110 mm Hg despite at least 90 consecutive days of prescribed therapy, documented by at least two measurements of diastolic blood pressure at least 90 days apart during a consecutive 12-month period.
Signs of Vascular Congestion or Anasarca: Signs of vascular congestion or anasarca despite at least 90 consecutive days of prescribed therapy, documented on at least two occasions at least 90 days apart during a consecutive 12-month period.
Anorexia with Weight Loss: Anorexia leading to weight loss determined by a body mass index (BMI) of 18.0 or less, calculated on at least two occasions at least 90 days apart during a consecutive 12-month period.
Understanding Disability Considerations
When evaluating CKD cases, the SSA takes several factors into consideration:
Medical Documentation: Comprehensive medical documentation is essential to support the diagnosis of CKD, laboratory test results, and additional impairments. Medical records, imaging studies, biopsy reports, and reports from treating physicians play a crucial role in establishing the severity and persistence of the condition.
Functional Limitations: The SSA evaluates the functional limitations caused by CKD and its associated impairments. This includes assessing the impact on the individual's ability to perform daily activities, work, and maintain a reasonably normal lifestyle.
Treatment Compliance: The SSA considers whether the individual is following prescribed treatments and making reasonable efforts to manage their CKD and associated impairments. Compliance with medical treatment and therapy is an important factor in evaluating disability claims.
Navigating the Social Security Disability process for individuals with CKD requires a thorough understanding of the specific evaluation criteria outlined in listing 6.05. If you or a loved one has CKD and meets the criteria, it is essential to gather all relevant medical evidence and work with a qualified disability advocate or attorney.