is Severe obstructive sleep apnea classed as a disability?

BrianMcFaddenFan82 · November 11

Hi everyone, I was wondering if anyone knows if my severe obstructive sleep apnea is classed as a disability or not asy fiancé mentioned it to me that it is.

I'm not sure who told him, but I'm thinking that it was his twin sister as she has sleep apnea herself (I don't know what type she has tho) and he's been talking to her a lot recently.

I also have a few other medical conditions, which I'm not sure if they are classed as a disability or not.

I have tried claiming PIP in the past for my mental health, but was refused it, but I can't remember why now though.

Does anyone know how I can see my medical notes without going to my doctor's or using the NHS app as I don't have photo ID, which is what I need for both.

I am also wondering if I should see if I can get any support to get into work as I'm really fed up with not being able to get a job because of my WCA as I really want to work.

I have been thinking about looking for a part-time job for now just to get me into the routine of working.

Albus_Scope · November 11

Some people with severe obstructive sleep apnea could be classified as having a disability and are covered by the Equality Act 2010 if their condition has had a substantial adverse impact on normal day-to-day activities for over 12 months or is likely to do so.

PIP is claimed on how your conditions affect you daily, it's not based on diagnosis at all.

Do you have the NHS app? I know you can see all your medical notes on there easily, so it's worth getting.

If you'd like some support, I'd highly recommend speaking to the lovely folk at Scopes Support To Work.

Nashota · November 11

The OP said "Does anyone know how I can see my medical notes without going to my doctor's or using the NHS app as I don't have photo ID, which is what I need for both."

Which is the problem that I'm having, I've requested a "passphrase" aka a linkage key from the practice how many months ago and haven't received it. Looks like another thing for the practice manager to address, she's going to like me lol.

As Albus said it can be classified as a disability, I had it at one point but my GP never told me that I was diagnosed with it which was stupid of her, I didn't know until I was referred back to a sleep clinic and was told I did have severe OSA but I had cured it by losing weight.

Losingallhope · November 11

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/938952#Comment_938952

Contact your surgery admin you can request a hard copy of your medical notes just give them dates from & to it's a free service

BrianMcFaddenFan82 · November 11

@Losingallhope I have asked for a copy of them, but they still insist that I have photo ID for them to be able to give it to me.

I think it's daft as not everyone has or can afford to pay for photo ID.

@Albus_Scope can I talk to the via chat or email as I get very nervous talking to someone who I don't know on the phone

Jimm_Scope · November 12

Hi @BrianMcFaddenFan82, some of the support through our Support To Work scheme can be done online. They have an email address you can use to contact them and discuss more: supporttowork@scope.org.uk

You should be able to use other forms of ID than just photo ID. As you say, not everyone has photo ID. Utility bills and council tax bills should be able to confirm your identity and address, though they will possibly need more than one to be sure.

BrianMcFaddenFan82 · November 12

Ty @Jimm_Scope .

is Severe obstructive sleep apnea classed as a disability?

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