What you have to prove
Show GI hemorrhaging requiring blood transfusion of at least 2 units of blood per transfusion, and occurring at least 3 times during a consecutive 6-month period. The transfusions must be at least 30 days apart within the 6-month period.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Hospital records documenting each transfusion episode, endoscopy reports, CBC trends, and gastroenterologist evaluations.
Common misconceptions
Outpatient iron infusions don't count. The listing specifically requires blood transfusions during acute GI bleeding events.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.