Prediction of succcessful application for disability benefits using the Health Assessment Questionnaire for people with arthritis

Background: Many eligible people with arthritis do not receive disability benefits. Application forms are lengthy and complex, and doctors and nurses are often unsure which patients would qualify. Aim: To investigate how severe disability on the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) relates to successful application for disability benefits by people with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Method: RA patients attending a hospital out-patient rheumatology clinic and patients with OA or RA in two general practices completed an HAQ and were asked about receipt of disability benefits. Those scoring 2 or more on the HAQ (severe disability) and not in receipt of benefits were offered professional help to complete applications for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance (AA). Results: Eighty per cent of patients with an HAQ score of 2 or more were already in receipt of benefits. Seventy-nine per cent of the new applicants applied successfully, the average benefit being in excess of £2580 per annum. Conclusion: This initial study suggests that people who score 2 or more on the HAQ should be encouraged to apply for disability benefits. A test of the generalizability of these findings and the success rate associated with lower HAQ scores should be undertaken