KIDNEY TRANSPLANT BENEFITS
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT & DISABILITY BENEFITS
A kidney transplant is often the last option for people with severe kidney disease. When the kidneys can no longer remove waste and fluids, dialysis or transplant is needed to stay alive. A kidney transplant offers a chance for a longer life. However, the surgery and recovery process are complex and not everyone can return to work afterward.
Each year in the United States, doctors perform 25,000 kidney transplants. Despite this number, thousands of people remain on waiting lists for surgery. The demand for donor kidneys is far greater than the supply. Those who receive a transplant face months of recovery and years of medical care. They also live with the risks of rejection and infection.
Because of these challenges, Social Security Disability benefits are often necessary. Disability benefits provide financial help during recovery and beyond. For many, this support is the only way to maintain financial stability when they cannot return to work.
KIDNEY FAILURE AND THE NEED FOR TRANSPLANT
Chronic kidney disease develops over time. Many people suffer years of gradual kidney loss before they require dialysis. Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure often cause kidney failure. When kidney function falls below ten percent, dialysis or transplant becomes necessary. Dialysis helps filter waste, but it does not replace the function of a healthy kidney.
A kidney transplant is the only treatment that restores near normal kidney function. The procedure involves replacing a failed kidney with a healthy one from a donor. Most patients receive a kidney from a deceased donor, although some have living donors.
While the surgery can be successful, it is not a cure. Patients must take medication for the rest of their lives to prevent rejection. These medicines inhibit the immune system, which creates ongoing health risks.
KIDNEY TRANSPLANT STATISTICS IN THE USA
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), kidney transplants are the most common organ transplant in the country. In fact, they account for nearly two thirds of all organ transplants performed each year. More than 90,000 people are on the waiting list for a kidney at any given time. Unfortunately, many die while waiting.
For those who do receive a transplant, the first year is the most critical. Rejection episodes and infection often occur during this time. Even after a successful surgery, the average patient faces a long adjustment period. Frequent medical visits, strict medication schedules, and side effects from treatment can make working impossible.
FILING FOR SSD BENEFITS AFTER KIDNEY TRANSPLANT
The Social Security Administration recognizes kidney transplants under Listing 6.04. They grant SSD benefits for one year after a kidney transplant. But, of course, you will still need to file an application for benefits. No one receives benefits unless they apply for them. You can file for benefits on the Social Security website.
Once you provide medical records of your transplant, the SSA will approve SSD benefits for one year. During this year, you are considered disabled and do not need to try to return to work during your recovery.
SSA assumes that recovery and the risk of illness make it impossible for you to work. This approval period gives you time to heal without the added pressure of working.
After one year, the SSA will review your case. They will look at your medical records to decide if you are still disabled. Some people are able to recover enough to return to work. However, others continue to struggle with issues like infections, rejection, and other side effects of treatment. If you continue to have problems, the SSA may extend your benefits.
WHAT SSA LOOKS FOR ONE YEAR AFTER KIDNEY SURGERY
Once the one year period ends, the SSA will no longer assume you are disabled. Instead, they will look at your current medical condition. SSA will consider:
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Whether your kidney function has improved
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If you have had rejection episodes or infections
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The side effects of your medications
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Whether you can perform daily activities and basic work tasks
If your transplant does not restore your ability to work, then you can still receive benefits. SSA will review your medical evidence and decide whether your symptoms equal another listing or prevent you from working at all jobs.
