Is my child eligible for Social Security Disability?

Low-income disabled children may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits through Social Security. There are many costs involved in caring for a disabled child. These include transportation to medical appointments (which often include longer commutes for specialty care), medications, special mobility equipment, therapy, etc.  Income from SSI benefits helps…

Heart Issues in Children

Definition The Social Security Administration defines a cardiovascular impairment as any disorder that affects the proper functioning of the heart or the circulatory system (arteries, veins, capillaries, and the lymphatic drainage). The disorder can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (the result of a disease, accident, or medication). General…

Scoliosis

A. Definition Scoliosis is defined as a lateral (toward the side) spinal curvature of more than 10 degrees to the right or left as the examiner faces the patient (in the coronal plane). Deformity also can exist to the front or back (in the sagittal plane). B. General information Approximately…

Malnutrition

A. Definition Malnutrition is the condition that occurs when the body does not get enough nutrients to maintain healthy tissues and organ function. It is characterized by significant weight loss, often due to a digestive disorder. B. General Information The Social Security Administration evaluates malnutrition as it relates to any digestive…

Cystic Fibrosis

A. Definition Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening, inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs and digestive system. The name, cystic fibrosis, refers to the characteristic scarring (fibrosis) and cyst formation within the pancreas. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impacts the lungs, pancreas, liver, and intestine. Difficulty breathing…

Growth Impairment

A. Definition Growth impairments are common in children. Growth impairments from a known source such as fetal alcohol syndrome, dwarfism, sick cell, and malnutrition have all been recognized as disabilities. However, just being smaller than average does not qualify as a disability, according to the Social Security Administration. Often an…