There are many disabling conditions that are considered severe enough by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to qualify an individual for Social Security disability benefits. These conditions may diminish an individual’s ability to perform gainful employment, thus qualifying them for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

These conditions are described in the impairment listing manual (the “Blue Book”) utilized by the Kentucky Disability Determination Services (DDS) to determine whether or not a claimant meets the criteria for total disability. Claimants who meet the eligibility criteria for a condition listed in the Blue Book are eligible to be awarded benefits by the SSA.

The Blue Book lists the physical and mental impairments with the detailed requirements for determining whether or not a medical condition is disabling. The listing of impairments contains those medical conditions most commonly considered to be severe enough to prevent an individual from working. Individuals that meet the requirements of a listed impairment (or “listing”) automatically qualify for disability, whether or not he or she can actually work.

Here is a short summary of the impairments.

  • Cardiovascular System – Heart conditions(High Blood Pressure, Heart Failure and Blood Clots)
  • Digestive System – Digestive disorders (Crohn’s Disease, and Hepatitis)
  • Endocrine System – Glandular conditions that secrete hormones (Thyroid Disorders and Obesity)
  • Genitourinary Impairments – Impairments relating to the reproductive organs and urinary system (Renal Disease)
  • Hematological Disorders – Blood disorders (Chronic Anemia and Sickle Cell Disease)
  • Immune System Disorders – Conditions of the immune system (HIV and Lupus)
  • Malignant Neoplastic Diseases – Various forms of Cancer (Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer)
  • Mental Disorders – Mental illnesses (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Schizophrenia)
  • Multiple Body System Impairments – Conditions that affect multiple body systems (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome)
  • Musculoskeletal System – Conditions that affect the muscular and skeletal systems (Herniated Discs and Degenerative Disc Disease)
  • Neurological Problems – Nervous system disorders (Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy)
  • Respiratory System – Conditions relating to the lungs and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide (Asthma and Lung Infections)
  • Skin Disorders – Problems of the skin (Cellulitis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa)
  • Special Senses and Speech – Impairments concerning sight and hearing (Hearing Loss and Vision Loss)

If you believe that you are disabled and would like to know more about applying for Social Security Disability regarding any of the above conditions, contact Sullivan Law Office today. We offer free consultations, so you have absolutely nothing to lose! We look forward to hearing from you. Call 888-587-0228 or visit us online.Introduction To The Listing Of Impairments For Evaluation Of Disability