Claims for Social Security Disability based on HIV/AIDS, related symptoms and side effects of treatment

As a Social Security Disability lawyer in Daytona Beach, Florida, I have seen an increase in the number of claims for Social Security disability by those who have contracted HIV/AIDS. According to a recent CBS news report, the southern United States, including Florida, has the highest HIV infection rates of any other part of the country. Although the highest number of HIV cases are in larger population areas like New York and California, it appears that the highest rate of HIV infections are in the South.

Complications from HIV/AIDS, including the side effects of the medications, can cause debilitating problems. Although the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS itself will not usually result in a finding of disability by the Social Security Administration, the accompanying physical and neurological effects of the virus (such as wasting syndrome or neuropathy) can. In addition, there can be severe side effects from the medications used to treat the virus. These side effects which can include nausea, chronic diarrhea and dizziness can also be used as factors in proving a Social Security Disability case.

As in all Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income cases, medical evidence is extremely important, in fact it is an absolute necessity in developing a disability claim. This is particularly true for HIV/AIDS patients. Medical records from a treating physician that include the results of regular blood work is extremely helpful when a Social Security Judge is evaluating a claim for disability based on HIV/AIDS. Likewise, it is also important to make sure you are advising your doctor about all of your physical symptoms and side effects of your treatment. As indicated above, it is often times the symptoms and side effects of treatment that establish disability rather than the diagnosis itself. If you have questions regarding your Social Security claim or would like to discuss your case, you can contact Johnson & Gilbert, P.A. for a free consultation.

Free Book