My transfer IB to ESA

I recieved a letter about five days ago saying that I am being transfered over from IB to ESA. As it is a new area I thought I would post the process as it happens to me as there may be some relivant information for others.

As a brief background I have a severe lung disease, had lung reduction surgery 2 years ago. I also have lost the feeling in half of both of my hands (Ulna nerve)after 4 attempts at corrective surgery. I have recieved IB for 3 years with my last assesment 3 months ago and since Febuary 2011 have been awarded Higher rate mobility and lower rate care indefinately.

I recieved the letter 5 days ago which is a standard information letter which informed me that I would be getting a telephone call soon about swapping over

I got this call at 09:00am this morning. A nice polite lady asked a few personal details then went on to a pre written script about the change over, the affects if I didnt fill in the form, that I may be required to go for a medical and that they would be posting it soon. She then asked if I had any questions and that was it. So now is just waiting for the new claim form.

When you were assessed 3 months ago for IB, can I ask if it was a paper assessment or did you have a medical?

Also, after your assessment 3 months ago were you given a review date and if so, when was it for?

Many thanks for posting.

hey thank you for sharing your experience with us, i sit here waiting everyday for the dreaded letter and am worrying myself sick (more sick), i will follow your experience thank you

AdrianMW,

I hope you get the correct outcome from the assessment, maybe there won't be need for a medical,if you give enough info in your ESA50.

It may be worth you seeing your G.P.?Consultants about supporting you, now.

Have you downloaded the new ESA50, you could familiarise yourself with it, or even start filling it in now to relieve the pressure.

Make sure you emphasise your exacerbation with very little exertion, re lung problems, and your dexterity problems re your hands.

Don't forget the new mobilizing descriptor includes useing an imaginary wheelchair, not just walking.

If you have spyrometry tests at your G.P., get copies of your results, peak flow, lung age, etc, (from G.P.) If you do this you will also see that they they assess you on the "GMC Breathlessness Scale", 5 is the most severe.

And finally use the guides on here they are invaluable.

good luck

bro58

Thanks for the useful advice posted, everything helps.

In answer to Frogslegs no I didnt require a medical for my IB reassesment nor for my DLA award due to the severity of my condition. I was given a 12 month review date for my IB.

Thanks for the reply adrian.

So it looks as if they are not going by existing review dates for transfering people from IB to ESA