The Social Security Administration has revised its criteria for evaluating whether people with endocrine disorders are eligible for Social Security disability. Effective June 7, patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or other thyroid disorders are no longer automatically eligible for disability, with the exception of diabetic children under the age of six.
Last updated 25 years ago, the criteria were revamped despite vigorous opposition from the American Diabetes Association. The SSA cited earlier detection, better treatments and a lack of severity in many cases as reasons for removing endocrine disorders from its list of qualifying conditions.
Individuals currently receiving Social Security disability benefits will still be evaluated based on the old criteria. New disability claimants with endocrine disorders will have to meet the new criteria.
The Endocrine Society sent a formal letter to the SSA, protesting the changes and recommending that all diabetic children under the age of 18 who require daily insulin receive automatic eligibility.
“The Endocrine Society is concerned that removing the entire ‘endocrine conditions’ section will discount the hardships that many patients with complex endocrine conditions face and will place an undue burden on the patient and their physician to prove the need for disability support,” the letter stated.
Learn more about applying for Social Security disability benefits.