If you suffer from diabetes and it has caused you complications, like limb amputation, you may be eligible to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Recently, Fox News reported that African Americans are less likely to receive care for diabetes and more than three times more likely to lose a leg to amputation compared to people of other races who have the disease.
This comes as diabetic amputation rates across the country have actually lowered. The network reported that among blacks in rural areas, especially in the Southeast, amputation rates are increasing.
According to Fox News, there were 2.4 leg amputation procedures for every 1,000 Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes and peripheral artery disease nationally between 2007 and 2011. However, among African Americans, the rate was about 5.6 procedures per 1,000 patients.
Experts believe that the disparities could be linked to a number of things, including biological responses to medication, as well as issues with nutrition and access to quality healthcare in poorer neighborhoods.
Will I Qualify for SSDI If I Have Diabetes?
It has been reported that people who have diabetes also have a 50 percent higher risk of obtaining other disabilities than people who do not suffer from the disease.
Sadly, many people who suffer from diabetes also suffer from issues like retinopathy, nephropathy, peripheral neuropathies, cardiovascular problems and skin and bacterial infections, in addition to amputation.
Right now, more than 347 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes. If you have diabetes and you cannot work, but have worked in the past and have work credits, it is very possible that you are eligible for SSDI. Additionally, if you have lost a limb due to amputation, you may be able to collect benefits.
For more information, call us today.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security disability attorneys
