If you or your child were diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, you may automatically qualify for Social Security disability benefits through the compassionate allowance system, which expedites the approval process. This article reviews how this system works and how to qualify with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a rare and congenital heart defect characterized by critical underdevelopment of the left side of the heart. This condition prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood into the lungs and the rest of the body, forcing the system to rely on the right side of the heart.
Qualifying for a Compassionate Allowance with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
The SSA’s compassionate allowance list (CAL) consists of over 200 conditions that are considered disabling enough to automatically qualify you for disability benefits. The consideration and approval process is also expedited for listed conditions, so you could receive a decision and benefits within a month instead of having to wait for several months.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome was added to the CAL in August 2020 because even with treatment, those with the condition will find it difficult to endure sustained physical activity and have an increased risk of developing conditions like endocarditis. As an adult, these outcomes can prevent you from maintaining regular employment. Therefore, conditions that automatically qualify you for disability benefits.
To medically qualify for a compassionate allowance for hypoplastic left heart syndrome, you or your child will have to meet SSA Blue Book listing 4.06 Symptomatic congenital heart disease (cyanotic or acyanotic) as evidenced by appropriate medical imaging or cardiac catheterization. Examples of acceptable evidence may include:
- Electrocardiogram or echocardiogram results
- Surgical reports from procedures like heart transplants or a three-step surgical procedure called staged palliation
- A physical exam showing signs of heart failure
Once the SSA receives your disability benefits application, it will immediately be flagged by the Compassionate Allowance system, which results in a faster review and approval process. While most disability applications can take months to review and approve (or deny), hypoplastic left heart syndrome is considered so disabling that the need for benefits is more urgent and payments could start arriving within a month.
Have Your Case Reviewed by a Disability Lawyer
Compassionate allowance cases receive faster consideration but the application process can still be challenging, especially for parents who are trying to give their children the best possible quality of life. The forms are extensive, and the required medical evidence can be difficult to identify and collect.
Working with a Social Security Disability lawyer may take the stress out of the process and increase the chances of your disability benefits application being approved. Although hypoplastic left heart syndrome qualifies you or your child for a compassionate allowance, there is always the risk of an initial denial and if that happens, your attorney can represent your family at the subsequent hearings. To connect with participating, independent SSD attorneys who subscribe to our website, complete the Free Case Evaluation form today.
