Changes to Social Security Listing for Epilepsy & Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Changes to Social Security’s Disability Listings
for Neurological Disorders, Epilepsy & Multiple Sclerosis

The Social Security Administration has finally made long overdue updates to its “disability listings” for neurological disorders – for the first time in 30 years. Our Long Beach Social Security attorneys are pleased to report that these changes are actually quite significant. And, these updates may positively affect the cases of Social Security Disability applicants with Epilepsy, MS and other neurological conditions.

Here are some of the changes to Social Security’s Disability listings for Neurological Disorders:

Previously, the SSA official “Blue Book” listings for cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis required a drop in I.Q .score, as a result of the condition. Thankfully, this requirement has been completely removed from all neurological listings.

Under the old listing, many of the SSA official “Blue Book” listings required a “disorganization of motor function in two extremities”. This has been modified – and can now be met by “the inability to stand up from a seated position” – without the risk of falling, unless the person has help or uses an assistive device.

The criteria used by the old listing also required “a sustained disturbance of gross and dexterous movements or gait and station”.  The new Blue Book has modified this to being met by “the inability to use the upper extremities or maintain balance while standing or walking.”

Additionally, one of the criterion listed in each neurological disorder called for a limitation in “social functioning”. The new listing changes this to a “limitation in interacting with others.”

The two previous listings for epilepsy in the Blue Book have now been combined into one. But, in what may be a step backwards, the new listing seems to somewhat now require that seizures occur on a more regular basis. However, it remains to be seen how this requirement will actually be applied in Social Security Disability cases.

Finally, the requirement for Epilepsy patient to submit blood drug levels to the SSA has been removed. Previously this was required to ascertain the patient’s compliance with prescribed treatment – but this burdensome requirement has now been removed.

Long Beach Social Security Disability Attorneys: 562-622-4800