Paraplegia affects thousands of Australians, and while many people are aware of what their exact entitlements are, this isn’t always the case.
Paraplegics should have access to certain entitlements.
Figures from the Queensland government show that the majority of spinal cord injuries occur in people under the age of 35. This can mean that they face decades of difficulties going about their day to day business, making it more important than ever they receive the entitlements they deserve.
An Access Economics report issued in 2009 found that the lifetime cost for every incidence of paraplegia stands at $5 million. Aside from the emotional impact, this shows that dealing with the condition can also come at a significant financial cost.
Here are just some of the benefits that the nation’s paraplegics should receive. If you are not receiving the entitlements you deserve, then be sure to speak to a compensation lawyer about how to progress your case.
- Essential Medical Equipment Payment
It’s often the case that paraplegics need specialist equipment installed in their home. Not only can this be costly to install, but it can be equally as expensive to run.
The Essential Medical Equipment Payment equates to $147 a year and aims to mitigate some of the rising energy costs that paraplegics face. Eligible items include electric wheelchairs, oxygen concentrators and heart pumps.
- Mobility allowance
Getting from A to B can be especially difficult for anyone with paraplegia, which is why the Mobility Allowance was introduced. It’s aimed at anyone who is unable to use public transport as a result of their disability.
The payment can be used for transport to and from work and training. Supporting documentation will need to be provided by a medical professional to confirm your eligibility.
- Disability Support Pension
In order to qualify for a Disability Support Pension, you will also need to provide medical evidence. You must also be unable to work for more than 15 hours a week for a minimum of two years as a result of your physical impairment.
The payments are assessed on a bi-annual basis, with the current level standing at a maximum of $782.20 per fortnight for single applicants, or $1,179.20 for combined couples. New levels are set in March and September each year.
- Medical Cooling Concession
In some cases, paraplegics can find it difficult to regulate their body temperature during the hotter months of the year. The Medical Cooling Concession was introduced to provide a 17.5 per cent discount on summer electricity costs between November 1 and April 30 each year.
You could have multitple claims available to you such as Total and Permananent Disability claims, CTP Accident Claims, Whole Injury Damages Claims.