If the CDR contains a new allegations of blindness that was not previously established
at the CPD, it is important to develop the potential blindness at the CDR, even if
the individual has established disability previously on the basis of an impairment(s)
unrelated to blindness.
Because of possible payment advantages to Title XVI recipients found “blind” rather
than “disabled,” undertake development for blindness whenever there is a reasonable
basis to believe the visual disorder may meet the statutory definition of blindness,
even when the medical evidence of record already establishes disability.
EXCEPTION: A disabled individual who is in a Federal living arrangement D (FLA/D) (i.e., lives
in a medical treatment facility where Medicaid pays over 50 percent of the cost of
care) is not eligible for any additional benefit amount based on blindness. Do not
develop for statutory blindness in this situation, see DI 26005.005. If the individual’s living situation changes and they no longer reside in a FLA/D,
the individual may be eligible for the additional benefit amount again based on blindness.