Social Security News Update

Social Security Expedites Decisions for People with Severe Disabilities

Social Security has announced five new Compassionate Allowances conditions: Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumors, GM1 Gangliosidosis – Infantile and Juvenile Forms, Nicolaides-Baraister Syndrome, Rubinstein-Tybai Syndrome, and Secondary Adenocarcinoma of the Brain. Compassionate Allowances is a program to quickly identify severe medical conditions and diseases that meet Social Security’s standards for disability benefits.

People with Heart Disease or Stroke Have Higher Risk of Complications from Flu

People with heart disease and those who have had a stroke are at higher risk for developing serious complications from flu. If you have heart disease, or have had a stroke, it is especially important that you get a flu vaccine every flu season to protect against flu and its potentially serious complications.

Medicare Coverage of Innovative Technology (MCIT) (CMS-3372-P) proposed rule

Medicare Coverage of Innovative Technology (MCIT) (CMS-3372-P) proposed rule, would provide Medicare beneficiaries access to the latest medical technology faster than ever. Under current rules, FDA approval of a device is followed by an often lengthy and costly process for Medicare coverage. The lag time between the two has been called the “valley of death” for innovative products, with innovators spending time and resources on FDA approval, only to be forced to spend additional time and money on the Medicare coverage process. This represents not only an unnecessary waste of resources for innovators, but also a significant problem for America’s seniors, who are prevented access to these potentially lifesaving technologies during the existing Medicare coverage determination process.

Flu Shots Are Safe

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there’s no evidence that a flu vaccination increases your risk of getting sick from a coronavirus, like the one that causes COVID-19.  The CDC recommends getting vaccinated in September or October, but a flu shot anytime during the flu season can help protect you.

Now’s the time to get your flu shot

Now’s the time to get your flu shot. The flu shot is covered for people with Medicare from providers that accept Medicare or your Medicare plan. You can safely get a flu vaccine at your doctor’s office, pharmacy, or other local provider.

Benefits of multivitamin use

A recent Oregon State University study found that older adults who used multivitamin and mineral supplements reported overall better health and a faster recovery time from illnesses. As people age, they are more likely to have vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can weaken their immune systems. Study findings suggest that even a simple vitamin and mineral regimen can benefit overall health for elders, as long as the supplement they take contains zinc and vitamin C.

wildfire safety

Wildfire Safety during COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some additional challenges to consider related to the public health impacts of wildfires.

SSA

Qualifying for Supplemental Security Income with Social Security

Social Security pays monthly Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to people with disabilities who have low income and few resources, and people who are age 65 or older without disabilities who meet the financial limits.

Managing Arthritis

While there is no known cure for arthritis, there are a variety of ways to help manage the effects it has on the body. The Arthritis Foundation website and the CDC website offer information on treatments, including medications and staying physically active.