What you have to prove
Show exacerbations requiring hospitalization with IV antibiotics at least three times within 12 months, at least 30 days apart.
Medical evidence SSA expects
HRCT showing bronchiectasis, hospital admission records for each exacerbation, sputum cultures, and pulmonary function tests.
Common misconceptions
Oral antibiotic courses don't count — the listing specifically requires hospitalization with IV antibiotics. Home IV therapy may or may not qualify depending on the adjudicator.
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.