Crohn's and disability in Canada

[shamrock15]

Sorry if this is a repeat - my search function here was not working...

Wondering if anyone has filed for permanent disability in Canada with Crohn's. On my read through, it basically implies if you are working you can't get it. is this correct? What do you need to do to substantiate it? I changed careers to try to reduce symptoms (that has worked). I know for me that I am medication dependant, and that is not likely going to change in my lifetime!

Has anyone gone through the procedure here? Pretty certain that I would be able to get my doc to sign off on it, just wonder what I face with the government.

Thanks in advance,

D'Arcy

 

[glum chump]

Which province are you in, D'Arcy? Most provinces have a disability program through 'welfare' that you can apply for---it tends to include financial assistance and assistance with prescription medications. You can also apply for disability through CPP, and this is based on the years you've worked and CPP contributions. The provinces have a flat rate for all clients with disabilities.

Do you have a long-term disability plan through extended health benefits at your workplace?

Kismet

 

[Dunbar]

I am on disability here in bc, as Kismet said it is thru social assistance. You can't work any more than $500 per month but there is also a multiple barriers program that may enable you to work. Also, all needs are covered. I am on Humira, weekly injections, to the tune of $1500 per month, needless to say that disability has been a godsend financially. A group that was especially helpful to me was ' Employment Action' they walked me thru the steps from start to finish. Hope this helps.

 

[shamrock15]

I'm in Ontario - will likely be checking into all of this in the next couple days. No benefits at work - I am a supply teacher, so there won't be benefits until I get full time work. That will be a couple years. I have been thankful for the Trillium program, and I guess its Shering Plough - they have pretty much covered the cost of my remicade ($5800 every 6 weeks). Definitely couldn't afford it otherwise.

Thanks for the info!

 

[Zalanicht]

I'd be interested in more info on this subject. I'm paying for my Aza out of my pocket and that's a lot for a 21 year old in a province with no jobs.

 

[glum chump]

Zalanicht: are you registered with Fair Pharmacare? You shouldn't be paying the full amount for Aza if you're unemployed or underemployed on Fair Pharmacare.

In terms of getting on disability assistance, you'll need to make an application. You can get the application by going to the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance. I'm not sure of the exact process, but you can get more info on their website: http://www.hsd.gov.bc.ca/pwd.htm

Good luck!

 

[Dunbar]

Some quick tips:
enquiry bc 1-800-663-7867 especially if you use a cell phone (to contact an office near you)
be very descriptive, omit nothing
if you can provide a picture from your most recent colonospy-in colour a pictures worth a thousand words
Glum chump's right about fare pharma, it will save a lot whether you go on disability or not

 

[Dunbar]

I was denied but my dr wrote a letter to me stating he figured they were misinterpreting the info given and that I should appeal. I sent that letter and a nice 8x11 colour pic of my insides and voila,I was accepted. I have to add that it took 5 months, apparently that is a short waiting period. I have talked to others who have waited a year or more with reviews and appeals.
xoxava-hope you are successful and in a timely manner. fingers x'ed