Short and Long Term Disability

[ptich]

I have a few questions about disability.

1. Is disability for persons with ALS handled the same way as with any other disease: fisrt 1.5 years of Short Term, then Long Term ?

2. When moving to Long Term disability, is Cobra the only option ?

3. Do they extend Cobra to 3 years (instead of usual 18 months) in case of Long Term Disability ?

[Rhonda]

I have a 2yr short term disability policy, then I have Social Security disability and I have long term with the Post Office. I had a 5 month waiting period for SSD. Have you applied for SSD or disability from your job? Rhonda

[lunarruna]

Are you in the US? In regards to Social Security, ALS is one of the few diseases in which you are immediately eligible for disability without a wait. This was made law about 5 or so years ago and is a big help.
Beth

[ptich]

Yes, I am in the US. I have not been finally diagnosed yet, so I cannot apply for SSD, I guess. But, because I have completely torn rotator cuff tendon in my right shoulder, I think I can apply for Short Term Disability anyway.

What is the relationship between SSD and Long Term Disability ? Does SSD provides a medical insurance (like Medicare) ?

[Al]

Hi ptich. About half way down the page on this site is some SSC information that might help. AL.
http://55jer.com/randysalsmanual.htm#COPING_WITH_ALS

[Peg B]

Hi,

I never went on short term disablity but was paid for 90 days trough sick time and union benefits. Then I could go on LTD. I am Ok for long term for the next three years and probably until the age of 65 (They want to recheck status after 3 years). Please call your union or workers rep and ask them. I know my union people really helped and directed me well. The law for ALS and SS is referred to as the TERI law. Look it up on the internet. I learned about it at this forum and it was good to have the information to ask about at the SS office. I applied yesterday for SS disability insurance which you have to do in the US if you go on LTD. I also officially retired last month. I am in the US and have not been totally diagnosed. I am still on IVIG, and the ALS clinic and I are hopping for MMN. Also please note LTD is an insurance program you and your employee pay into as a benefit for you. Best Wishes, Peg

[patricia1]

could you tell me about the ivig my md wants me to have it but scared me about side effects pat

[ptich]

Thanks Peg. If you haven't had your final diagnosed, what was the basis for applying for SSD ?

[lunarruna]

Pitch,
Yes, Social Security disability will give you Medicare.
Beth

[Peg B]

Hi Pitch,

I am disabled by MMN. I am unable to write, i.e. writing a check is difficult in holding the pen and pushing down hard enough to form the letters. It is a cognitive task. I also have difficulty with walking and tire easily. My hand remains very weak and my baby finger is atrophied. I cannot move it. I was diagnosed with ALS Oct 31, 2006, but the ALS clinic says I have an MND that might be MMN. I know the internet info calls MMN both an autoimmune and sometimes MND. I fit some of both criteria. I also have abnormal EMG in 3 limbs. Right now I just show lower motor neuron issues. It is said I have MMN or "atypical ALS." As far as SSD I won't know if I qualify under them for several months. She said that if ALS is the diagnosis then I can get medicare right away. But I do not need ALS diagnosed to qualify for SSD. I have 36 + years in and cannot work so I got LTD and then retired. I am starting my second 4 months on IVIG as I have shown some improvement. I am very grateful for this good fortune. Best Wishes, Peg