copd

[jacquie1967]

i have been told i have copd by my nurse at my doctors after having a lunf function test

i have applyed for DLA on the grounds of having copd and an aneryrism what are the chances of getting dla?

[Gordon57]

It depends on how bad these conditions are, if you are unable to walk a certain distance, if you are working, if you need help with daily routine - it's impossible for the DLA assessors to get it right first time it seems, never mind us trying to best guess what they may say.

Having COPD isn't an automatic qualifier for getting DLA, I've had that in writing from Maria Miller MP, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Minister for Disabled People. All you can do is apply, state your case, and see what comes back.

I did, I was refused and am now appealing...

[Hidden]

Hi I agree with Gordon jacquie1967. I'm not sure its worth applying for DLA right now as it will be changing in April 2013 to PIP. I have read about this and its not so much about the illness you have but how it affects you. Its probably also a cost cutting excercise for the Government!

Also you have to have been diagnosed for 6 months or more (unless its terminal) to have a chance of getting it.. Good luck with your application anyway. Let us know how you get on. xx

[dee1311]

Hi. I was diagnosed with COPD (severe bi-lateral emphysema)3 years ago after having recurring lung collapses in both lungs. I had pleurodesis on both lungs and cysts removed. I contracted pneumonia not long after my last operation and was hospitalised for a month. I was in a wheelchair for 2 months after. I also suffer with menieres disease, anxiety, depression and rheumatoid arthritis. i have had repeated bouts of bronchitis and an episode of flu. I have been turned down twice for DLA. I've given up trying now.

[derrylynne]

Many seem to think that a diagnosis of copd, because it is progressive, is an automatic entitlement to DLA. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are several stages of copd, and it will only be when you have reached the very severe stage, when you have a lot of difficulty in walking and severe restrictions like getting out of breathe dressing, bathing, bending and you cannot even cut your toe toe nails. I have DLA, with all these very severe limitations which now mean I am on oxygen for walking and exercise. I would gladly give up my DLA to be more healthy and be able to do the things that many take for granted. I was diagnosed at 39 years of age, and still worked up to when I was 60 years of age when I became so ill I had to stop for ill health. My view is you chances of getting DLA going by what you have written is Nil. Sorry.

[Hidden]

DLA

My first claim was a disaster total my fault. I never appealed. My second claim latter part of last year. I downloaded the claim form took my time, then sent off. Refused , rather then appeal I asked them to look at my claim again, asking for the case notes (these notes can be used later if you appeal) It was clear from these notes why they had refused. As I was attending my yearly visit to the medical centre I enquired about gaining a copy of any test result, although this is only done between the DWP and your Doctor the nurse wrote down two result for me Spirometry test and the MRC scale. I used the internet to decipherer these results, and DWP own web site to do a comparison as to what would be expected for a person at this level. I downloaded all the information highlighted the parts which I believed applied to me ,and along with a not to nice covering letter sent it off. Not expecting to much, 10 days later a letter arrived informing me my claim was agreed, higher rate mobility and middle rate care indefinite period.

So rather than appeal ask them look again, you have better chance to resolve a dispute if you know the cause, you can still appeal plus you will have the case papers.

disabilityalliance.org publish a booklet DLA/AA a guide to making a claim. it will explain the questions and meanings, which can help you decide your claim.

[Lynne1955]

I'm 57, have moderate COPD (FEV 1 of 55%) and wouldn't dream of claiming as I work without any problem, exercise to keep as fit as I can and that's how I want it to stay.

If people are classed as severe, then that may be a different matter.

My own view I know, but it's not going to beat me.

Lynne x