HR 718 Background
In February, 2011 Representatives Bob Filner [D-CA] and Brian Bilbray [R-CA] re- introduced The Huntington's Disease Parity Act of 2011 (HR 718). If passed, this important legislation will require the Social Security Administration to update their outdated disability listing for HD and also provide a waiver for the 2-year Medicare waiting period to people disabled by HD.
Delays and unnecessary reapplications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are far too common and you don't have to go far within the HD community to find someone that has struggled or is still struggling to obtain benefits. After they begin receiving benefits, people with HD often face a gap in health coverage due to the Medicare eligibility waiting period, at a time when their medical needs are only increasing.
This is an issue affecting everyone in our community and we've gained a lot of groundin bringing about these much needed changes. With every co-sponsor we come one step closer to our goal. To contact your Representative today about HR 718, just go to www.hdsa.org/takeaction