What this listing covers
Hematological disorders involve non-cancerous conditions that disrupt the normal development and function of blood components. This includes hemolytic anemias, where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely, and disorders of thrombosis or hemostasis, which affect how blood clots. It also covers bone marrow failure syndromes where your body cannot produce enough healthy blood cells.
These conditions often cause severe fatigue, chronic pain, and frequent infections that make maintaining a regular work schedule difficult. You may struggle with the physical demands of lifting or standing, or find that the cognitive impact of malaise and pain prevents you from concentrating on tasks for a full shift. These symptoms can be unpredictable, leading to frequent absences.
How SSA evaluates a claim under this listing
Under Listing 7.18, the Social Security Administration evaluates the impact of repeated complications on your ability to function. SSA looks for documented symptoms like pain, severe fatigue, or shortness of breath that occur alongside your diagnosis. You must show that these complications occur frequently enough to interfere with your daily life, even if you do not meet the specific criteria for other blood disorder listings.
To qualify, your condition must cause a marked limitation in at least one of three areas: activities of daily living, social functioning, or the ability to complete tasks due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence, or pace. These limitations must be supported by medical evidence and persist for at least 12 months. SSA considers the combined impact of your symptoms and any side effects from your ongoing treatments.
Evidence that strengthens a claim
Strong claims rely on laboratory reports that definitively establish your diagnosis, such as hemoglobin electrophoresis or bone marrow biopsy results. You should provide records of all hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and treatments for complications like infections or uncontrolled bleeding. Detailed physician reports that explain how your specific blood disorder causes your symptoms are essential.
Non-medical evidence, such as a function report from a family member or coworker, can help illustrate how your fatigue or pain limits your daily activities. Records showing a history of failed treatments or the side effects of necessary medications also strengthen your case. An attorney can help you gather the medical records that link your blood disorder to your inability to sustain work-related tasks.
How an attorney helps
An attorney can help you organize your medical records to ensure they directly address the functional requirements of Listing 7.18. They can work with your doctors to obtain specific statements regarding your marked limitations in concentration or daily functioning. By preparing your case for potential hearings, an attorney ensures that the evidence clearly demonstrates how your hematological disorder prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.
Frequently asked questions
No, a diagnosis alone does not guarantee benefits. SSA evaluates whether your hematological disorder causes marked functional limitations that prevent you from working. You must provide medical evidence of your condition and its impact on your ability to function, which an attorney can help you gather.
The most important evidence includes laboratory reports confirming your diagnosis and records of repeated complications requiring medical intervention. SSA also looks for documentation of your symptoms, such as severe fatigue or pain, and how these symptoms limit your daily activities. An attorney can review your medical file to ensure all necessary documentation is included.
A marked limitation means your symptoms interfere seriously with your ability to function independently, appropriately, and effectively. This is not defined by a specific number of tasks you can perform, but by the overall degree of interference in your daily life. It includes difficulties with social interaction, household chores, or sustaining concentration at work.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to request an appeal through the reconsideration process and, if necessary, a hearing before an ALJ. You must file your appeal within the specific deadline provided in your denial notice. An attorney can help you identify gaps in your evidence and prepare a stronger case for your appeal.
