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Membership Continuing Education
Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Publication Date: 11/1/2023


Length: 60 minutes

Content Level: 1 Intermediate, General CE

Abstract
Case managers and social workers advocate, educate and provide critical support to patients with catastrophic illness or severe chronic diseases who become financially vulnerable when unable to work. Navigating complex government programs and systems can be overwhelming, especially for those dealing with severe chronic illness or life changing events. Knowing about disability and dispelling “myths” can save case managers and patients considerable time, frustration, and anxiety. Sharing resources that can minimize stress on patients and their caregivers allows patients to focus on recovery.

Learning Objectives
1. Describe the importance of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for patients, including three criteria that make SSDI eligibility likely and how it differs from Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
2. Identify the process and time frames for SSDI applications and appeals.
3. List conditions and diseases most commonly approved for SSDI, and questions to ask a patient who may need to file for disability.
4. Recognize reasons for denial and the importance of having a representative.
5. Associate SDoH screening with links to disability that may require additional resources.

Speakers:
T.J. Geist, BA | Director, Operations | Allsup Employment Services, LLC, Principal Advocate

T.J. Geist, Principal Advocate, has more than 19 years of experience with Allsup and its subsidiaries. In his current role, he applies his 16 years of claims experience throughout the organization with training and consulting roles and expanding his presence as an industry expert through public relations, government affairs and partnerships, as well as client activities. Throughout his career at Allsup, T.J. has worked at the Hearing and Appeals Council levels where he represented claimants before administrative law judges with written briefs and during in-person hearings. T.J.’s experience also includes serving as Director of Operations for Allsup Employment Services, LLC, a national, Social Security Administration-authorized Employment Network (EN), where he helped SSDI recipients return to work using the Ticket to Work program.

Lacee Bauer, BA | Director of Business Development, SSDI and VA | Allsup

Lacee Bauer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Lindenwood University in Illinois. Since 2015, she has been integrally involved with SSDI, and presently spearheads the business development initiatives at Allsup as the Director of Business Development for SSDI and VA sectors. Over the last year, Bauer has been instrumental in refining Allsup’s customer journey, focusing on enhancing both the customer experience and educational resources for claimants. With a professional background rooted in the health and wellness sphere since 2001, Bauer has cultivated significant expertise in assisting expectant and disabled populations. In recognition of her contributions to the field, she was honored with the Life Savers Award in 2011.

Keywords: Case Management, Social Security, SDOH

Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

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