Does Kidney Removal Qualify for Disability Benefits in Taiwan?

Does having one kidney removed count as a disability level?

Is having one kidney removed considered a disability? Can one apply for a disability certificate?

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/03/11

Dr. Yang Jun reply Internal Medicine

Hello Mr.
Xiao Ming, regarding individuals with bilateral kidneys who have undergone surgical removal of one kidney or have one kidney atrophied and non-functional due to congenital factors, the regulations concerning kidney-related disabilities in the disability assessment form (disability handbook application form) are as follows:
Moderate disability: Individuals with severely impaired kidney function and loss of activities of daily living, requiring close care from family members, must meet one of the following criteria: A.
Complete removal of one kidney or non-functional kidney B.
Chronic kidney disease or urinary system disease complicated by kidney failure, with a creatinine clearance rate between 16-30 mL/min, and no improvement after three months of treatment.

Human kidney function must be impaired bilaterally to cause abnormal results in kidney function tests.
If one kidney is completely removed or atrophied and non-functional, while the other kidney remains healthy, normal waste (toxin) excretion and electrolyte balance can still be maintained, and kidney function tests may still be normal.
According to the prerequisites in the disability assessment form, the condition of "loss of activities of daily living and requiring close care from family members" must be met, along with the complete removal or non-functionality of one kidney to qualify for a disability rating.
However, the decision to apply must still be determined by a nephrologist or a specialist in kidney surgery through appropriate examination and judgment.

Reply Date: 2002/03/11

More Info

In Taiwan, the eligibility for disability benefits, including the issuance of a disability handbook, is determined by specific medical criteria set forth by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The removal of a kidney, known as nephrectomy, can indeed qualify for disability benefits, but several factors must be considered.

Firstly, the assessment of disability is not solely based on the surgical removal of a kidney. Instead, it involves a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's overall health status, including the remaining kidney's function, any complications arising from the surgery, and the impact on the individual's daily life. The criteria for disability benefits typically include the degree of functional impairment, which is assessed through various medical evaluations.

According to the guidelines, individuals who have undergone nephrectomy may qualify for disability benefits if they meet certain conditions. For instance, if the remaining kidney is functioning poorly or if the individual experiences significant health issues related to the surgery, such as chronic kidney disease or other complications, they may be eligible for a disability rating. The specific criteria often include:
1. Chronic Kidney Disease: If the remaining kidney's function is significantly impaired (e.g., a glomerular filtration rate [GFR] below a certain threshold), this may qualify the individual for disability benefits.

2. Functional Limitations: The individual must demonstrate that their ability to perform daily activities is substantially limited due to their kidney condition. This could include difficulties in physical activities, fatigue, or other health-related issues.

3. Medical Documentation: To apply for disability benefits, comprehensive medical documentation is required. This includes surgical reports, follow-up evaluations, and assessments from nephrologists or other relevant specialists.

4. Application Process: The application for a disability handbook typically involves submitting the necessary medical documents to the local health authority or the relevant government agency. The application will be reviewed, and a decision will be made based on the established criteria.

5. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: It is advisable for individuals considering applying for disability benefits to consult with their healthcare providers. They can provide guidance on the application process, help gather necessary documentation, and assess the individual's health status in relation to the eligibility criteria.

In summary, the removal of a kidney can qualify an individual for disability benefits in Taiwan, but it depends on the remaining kidney's function and the overall impact on the individual's life. It is essential to have thorough medical evaluations and documentation to support the application for a disability handbook. If you or someone you know is in this situation, it is recommended to seek advice from healthcare professionals and the relevant authorities to navigate the application process effectively.

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