Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that can cause debilitating symptoms — severe abdominal pain, frequent urgent bowel movements, fatigue, malnutrition and complications requiring surgery. When symptoms are severe and unresponsive to treatment, they can make any form of regular employment impossible.
Does IBD qualify for TPD?
Yes, when the functional impact is severe enough. What super funds and their insurers assess is not the diagnosis itself, but your capacity to work on a sustained basis. If your gastroenterologist and GP can document that your condition prevents you from reliably attending and performing work, TPD eligibility becomes realistic.
Evidence to support your claim
- Gastroenterologist reports covering diagnosis, treatment history and prognosis
- Details of hospitalisations, surgical procedures and flare frequency
- Records of failed medication treatments
- A functional capacity assessment if available
Don't delay
If your condition has been progressively worsening and you've taken significant time off work, it's worth checking your super cover now. Use our free eligibility check to see where you stand.