Legal Question in Social Security Law in Florida

I receive Social Security Disability Income as Ihave Cystic Fibrosis, a progressive, incurable respiratory disease. I have now been diagnosed with severe degenerative disc disease in my spine and Mt orthopedic specialist had me on morphine -- but it makes me feel SO bad I cannot take it -- so now suffer 24/7. I have heard some doctors will prescribe a low dose of methadone which works far better for thiskind of pain. If I were to take that would I LOSE my diability Income? I am not addicted to paun medication -- simply seeking something to relieve all the pain without laving me feeling so bad all the time from the morphine.


Asked on 9/16/09, 4:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

Drug addiction, by law, generally excludes a person from receiving social security disability. Methadone is a treatment for many forms of drug addiction and, therefore, its usage is often an indicator that a person is drug addicted and should not receive SSI. But the exclusion is not automatic. You can provide evidence to SSD that you are receiving methadone for reasons other than drug addiction treatment. Speak to SSD and a social security lawyer to learn how to to this, and you should be able to continue receiving your SSD and receive methodone treatments simultaneously. I'll say a prayer for you regarding the other troubles you face.

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Answered on 9/16/09, 10:01 pm


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