Why are there so many different definitions of disability?

Who is considered disabled and who is not? And why does it matter?

What is the difference between disabled and special health care needs?

In order to receive services from many programs (Federal and private) you often need to meet some kind of eligibility criteria. Sometimes this is financial, sometimes it’s medically based on how significantly your health issues or disability impact your life on a daily basis, and sometimes it is both.

Being more aware of what the rules, regulations and laws are may aid you in your efforts to receive support from different agencies and receive legal protection against discrimination.