For those individuals impacted by the effects of a stroke, the outlook can be scary and overwhelming.
The sudden and unexpected nature of the injury often causes enormous upheaval in the lives of the person and family affected by the stroke.
If there is any silver lining in such a difficult situation, it may be that there are several local and state resources available to those to have been impacted by a stroke.
In fact, if you or someone you know has had a stroke, you may be eligible for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Neurologists in Florida
Individuals who have suffered a stroke will likely receive care from a neurologist.
Neurologists are physician experts who specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating illnesses related to the brain and central nervous system.
When applying for disability benefits, the SSA’s decision will rely heavily on the medical evidence that is presented to them. The SSA puts a great deal of weight on the opinion and information provided by medical experts.
Establishing a solid relationship with your neurologist can significantly enhance your chances of winning a disability award.
Your neurologist will provide the SSA with your most updated medical records, as well as an expert opinion on your health and prognosis.
For those who live in Florida, here are three neurology practices that could be of service in your care.
University of Miami Health System
Department of Neurology
1475 Northwest 12th Avenue
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 998-2474
https://umiamihealth.org/treatments-and-services/neurology
Neurological Services of Orlando
3849 Oakwater Circle
Orlando, FL 32806
(407) 240- 1762
http://www.orlandoneurological.com/index.shtml
Baptist Neurology Center
Downtown Campus
841 Prudential Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 398 – 5404
https://www.baptistjax.com/doctors/baptist-neurology
Stroke Support Groups
There is an increasing amount of research confirming the importance of social support after having a stroke.
Joining a support group can help those impacted by a stroke to feel connected to others through a shared experience. In addition to having a space to share feelings, stroke survivors can learn a great deal from other patients.
For those living in Florida, listed here are three stroke support groups.
Mount Sinai Rehab Stroke Support Group
Meets Every 3rd Wednesday 11:00 am-12:00 pm
4300 Alton Road
Miami Beach, FL 33140
(305) 674-22290
Health South of Altamonte Springs Stroke Support Group
Meets Every 2nd Thursday 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
831 South State Road 434
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
(407) 587-8600 x 8651
Stroke Busters Support Group
Meets Every 3rd Tuesday 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
580 W 8th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
(904) 244-9971
Applying for Social Security Disability for Stroke in Florida
If you are a resident of the state of Florida and have experienced a stroke that has restricted your ability to work, you might be eligible for disability benefits from the SSA.
As with all conditions, the SSA requires that the effects of your stroke keep you out of work for at least one year.
Further, as the long-term effects of a stroke are not always immediately apparent, the SSA will not consider stroke claims until three full months have passed since the cerebrovascular accident.
In fact, applications received in the first three months after a stroke will be immediately denied.
If the effects of your stroke are expected to last for at least a year, and full three months have passed since your stroke occurred, you can apply for disability benefits online or at any of one Florida’s 52 Social Security offices.
Here are three of Florida’s biggest Social Security offices:
Miami Social Security Administration Office 33189
11100 SW 211 Street
Miami, Florida 33189
(800) 772-1213
Orlando Social Security Office 32812
5520 Gatlin Ave Suite 101
Orlando, Florida 32812
(866) 964-6146
Jacksonville Social Security Office 32218
1685 Dunn Ave
Jacksonville, Florida 32218
(866) 635-0789
Can a Social Security Disability Lawyer Help Me for My Stroke in Florida?
Florida has a slightly lower than average initial approval rating for Social Security disability applicants. Further, the average wait time for those seeking an appeals hearing is above the national average at 19 months.
Hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer can significantly enhance your chances for a disability approval related to your stroke.
An experienced lawyer can assist in gathering all of your medical records from your health care providers, ensuring that the SSA has all of the evidence it needs to decide on your case.
By doing so, you may be able to avoid the lengthy appeals process and receive the financial help you need more quickly.
