|
|||
Encourages “medically disenfranchised” to reach out to local centers for treatment and medical documentation
Belleville, Ill. – August 5, 2011 – National Health Center Week (NHCW) August 7-13, celebrates the contributions of America’s federally supported community health centers, which serve more than 23 million people at more than 8,000 sites located throughout all 50 states and U.S. territories. Allsup, the nation’s leading Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) representation organization, recognizes the vital role of health centers in meeting the needs of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.
Community health centers provide comprehensive physical, mental and dental care regardless of an individual’s income or insurance coverage.
In 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that nearly 51 million Americans did not have health insurance. According to the National Association of Community Health Centers 1, there are 60 million people in the U.S. with limited or no access to primary care providers. A 2007 report defined these individuals as “medically disenfranchised” and determined that 21 states each had at least one million medically disenfranchised individuals. This trend shows no sign of improving with the economic recession.
By providing healthcare to individuals who might not otherwise be able to access treatment, health centers also provide the medical documentation needed to help individuals who can no longer work due to physical or mental illness apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
The SSDI program provides monthly income based on the FICA taxes individuals have paid during their working years as well as eventual access to Medicare. Social Security Administration disability examiners rely on medical diagnoses and details about doctor visits, medical facilities used, medications and their side effects, as well as information on the restrictions and limitations placed on individuals due to their conditions.
“Social Security disability is a medically-oriented program, and community health centers provide valuable medical documentation that can be used by the adjudicator to award benefits,” said Allsup senior claims consultant Ed Swierczek. “Because community health centers often serve those with limited incomes, SSDI benefits can have a significant impact on covering basic needs such as shelter and food, so claimants can lead healthier and more productive lives.
“By receiving their disability benefits, they may also gain additional access to healthcare because they will be eligible for Medicare two years after their disability onset date,” Swierczek added.
This year’s NHCW theme is “Celebrating America’s Health Centers: Serving Locally, Leading Nationally.” Allsup applauds our nation’s health centers and the dedicated health professionals and community board members working to eliminate barriers to healthcare in America’s poorest communities.
To learn more about National Health Center Week, visit www.healthcenterweek.org
|