Claiming Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis
If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you may be questioning the benefits you can claim. RA is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease that can significantly affect a person‘s daily activities, meaning a loss of income from the inability to work.
In Australia, rheumatoid arthritis patients may be eligible for financial assistance through various programs, including:
- Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claim
- Income protection claim
- Superannuation insurance claim
- The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
- Disability Support Pension (DSP)
Accessing all your entitlements can be complex, so we’ve created this guide, which explores the different benefits you may receive as someone living with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
For immediate free legal advice on a 100% no win, no fee basis, Call our helpful insurance claim lawyers on 1300 873 252
Is Rheumatoid Arthritis a Disability in Australia?
In Australia, rheumatoid arthritis is recognised as a disability when it significantly impacts a person’s ability to perform their daily activities and work. Thankfully, it is covered under the Australian Government’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
However, there are other sources of financial support (other than a government scheme) when you can’t work due to joint pain, swollen joints, bone erosion, and joint damage caused by RA. For example, you could claim a Total and Permanent Disability payout or income protection benefits through your superannuation insurance.
Some lucky Aussies have multiple superannuation accounts, which means they can make multiple claims and receive a six-figure lump sum benefit. Find out for free what you can claim by Calling 1300 873 252 or using our free online claim check.
RA is classified as an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy cells. When RA progresses, it can lead to severe discomfort, immobility, joint replacement surgery and an overall reduced quality of life.
People living with RA often face increasing difficulty managing both their personal and professional responsibilities. As such, it is essential to explore what disability benefits are available to support those living with this chronic illness.
What Benefits Can I Claim for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Total and Permanent Disability (TPD)
When rheumatoid arthritis permanently affects one’s ability to work, TPD insurance provides financial assistance. This form of insurance usually offers a lump-sum payment to people who are unable to return to work due to a permanent medical condition, such as RA.
TPD Eligibility
When trying to qualify for TPD benefits, you must provide comprehensive medical evidence from your doctor or other health professionals . This documentation needs to demonstrate how the condition has permanently impacted a person’s ability to continue working, especially if joint pain or other symptoms make it impossible to perform job-related tasks.
How to claim TPD benefits for rheumatoid arthritis
The application process for TPD claims can vary across providers but usually follows this process:
- Meet with an insurance claim lawyer to understand what you can claim and your estimated payout value.
- Obtain a medical assessment from a rheumatologist or treating doctor confirming your condition’s severity.
- Provide documentation that demonstrates your inability to continue working.
- Submit your claim to your insurer and superannuation fund, along with the required supporting evidence.
As each insurance provider or superannuation fund will have different claim processes, so it’s essential to review the terms of your TPD policy before taking action.
Disability Support Pension (DSP)
The Australian government offers payments to people who are unable to work due to a long-term disability, such as rheumatoid arthritis, through Social Security disability benefits like the Disability Support Pension. To qualify, claimants must demonstrate that their rheumatoid arthritis significantly impacts their ability to work for at least 15 hours per week.
Like a TPD claim, the DSP application requires documentation from healthcare providers to confirm that the patients condition is long-term, severe, and unlikely to improve with treatment.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The NDIS, as part of the broader health system, provides support and services to Australians with significant disabilities so they can have greater independence.
People living with rheumatoid arthritis can qualify for assistance under the NDIS when their condition affects their day-to-day functioning and requires long-term care or support. Once granted access, you could get help with:
- Daily living activities
- Household tasks
- Public transport
- Mobility aids
- Home modifications to accommodate the limitations caused by RA.
Similar to the other benefits, to access NDIS benefits, you must submit a detailed disability application outlining how RA affects their daily activities and ability to work. The NDIS also provides access to additional support services such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and social support.
Other Benefits and Support Services
The Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) is a government-funded healthcare system that provides free or low-cost access to medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and pharmaceuticals. People with RA may be eligible for MBS benefits, including rebates for doctor visits, tests, and treatments.
In addition to the MBS, people with RA may also be eligible for other forms of support, such as the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which provides subsidised access to prescription medications. These schemes are crucial in helping people manage the high costs associated with ongoing RA treatment and care.
The Role of Medical Evidence in Disability Claims
To make a successful disability insurance claim, you need complete and accurate medical evidence. This supporting evidence should also address any mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, that may be related to your condition.
NOTE: In some cases, receiving compensation for the psychological suffering a chronic medical condition causes is more manageable than for the physical ailment.
What Evidence Do I Need?
For rheumatoid arthritis, the evidence should include medical records documenting the severity and progression of the disease, treatments attempted (such as medications or surgeries), and the opinions of treating doctors.
Make sure your medical evidence includes the following:
- Diagnosis and history of RA
- Details of joint damage or bone erosion as seen in X-rays or scans
- Records of joint replacement surgery, if applicable
- Reports from health professionals
To make a solid medical case, you must demonstrate how RA has impacted your ability to work and function in daily life. This will help provide a more straightforward path to approval for disability benefits.
How a TPD Lawyer Helps Claim Arthritis Disability Benefits
Living with rheumatoid arthritis presents many challenges, but you don’t need to face these challenges alone. Thankfully, Australian government programs like the DSP and the NDIS provide critical financial support for those who can’t work because of RA or other medical conditions.
At Aussie Injury Lawyers, we specialise in helping people with chronic health conditions secure their due insurance benefits on a 100% no-win, no-fee basis. Our experienced TPD lawyers will guide you through the application process and give you the best chance of a successful payout. You can also use our TPD Payout Calculator to know the value of your lump sum payment.
Contact us for a free phone appointment to learn more about how we can assist you in securing the benefits you deserve. Call Now: 1300 873 252
Claiming Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis FAQS
Yes, the NDIS offers coverage for arthritis. Your eligibility for support services and funding depends of the severity of your medical disability and how it disrupts your daily life.
Any type of arthritis can qualify as a disability when it prevents you completing daily tasks. In Australia, each government scheme has its own requirements for accessing support and services.
For a successful superannuation insurance payout, you must prove how arthritis stops you from earning an income.
You can access Centrelink benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis when you meet their medical and non-medical rules. Click here for further information.
If you are living with RA, you could receive:
- A disability support pension
- NDIS support
- A total and permanent disability insurance payout
- Income protection monthly payments, when your condition is in the early stages.
