ESA to MA then back to ESA again...?'s....

claire0710

I have been on ESA since May and recently went for a medical assessment (not heard if passed/failed yet) - however, I will be leaving ESA in September and going onto maternity Allowance for 39 weeks. Once this comes to an end I will be back on ESA again whilst awaiting treatment for recurrent thyroid cancer.
My question is IF I pass the medical assessment will it still be valid for the next ESA claim after MA or will I have to go through the whole thing again? I found the medical very distressing as I am emotionally drained with battling cancer for 7 years but also I was kept waiting for 90 mins and my back was in agony by the time the doctor could see me. I am hoping that I pass but even if I fail it doesn't really matter as I will get Mat Allowance anyway. I just wondered if I pass will it be allowed to be used when I go back to ESA next year...?

mum-of-3

Are you entitled to MA, if you have been claiming ESA since May surely you don't qualify for MA as you have not been working in the qualifying test period?

claire0710

Yes I do qualify - you have to be working for 26 weeks out of the 66 weeks prior to baby being born (test period) and I was working upto May 2010 so I do qualify.

cedders

Hi Claire,
I don't know for sure but I would think that your medical assessment will not be valid as your condition can and will change for the worse or the best (hope for you the best!!). Good luck with them and I which you a speedy recovery.