ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)

Also known as: Lou Gehrig's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

A progressive neurological disease that damages the nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement and breathing. ALS is also called Lou Gehrig's disease.

ALS stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is also called Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS damages motor neurons, the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement and breathing.

As those nerve cells stop working, muscles become weaker. The disease gets worse over time and can affect walking, talking, swallowing, and breathing. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke provides current medical information about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Why ALS Changes Medicare Timing

Most people under 65 who qualify through Social Security disability benefits wait 24 months for Medicare. That wait does not apply to ALS.

When Social Security approves disability benefits for a person with ALS, Medicare Part A and Part B begin automatically in the same month as those benefits. The official Medicare guide for people under 65 explains the rule.

Our Medicare eligibility guide shows how ALS fits with the age, disability, and kidney failure rules.

Example

A person under 65 is approved for Social Security disability benefits because of ALS. Medicare begins in the same month as those benefits instead of after the usual 24-month disability wait.

Good to Know

The shortened Medicare timing follows approval for Social Security or qualifying Railroad Retirement disability benefits. A diagnosis by itself does not replace the disability-benefit application.

Related Terms

Medicare Part A — Hospital insurance that helps cover inpatient hospital care, limited skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.

Medicare Part B — Medical insurance that helps cover doctors, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment, and many tests and treatments.