Chronic Illness Law and Legal Definition
The term “chronic illness” is used to refer diseases that have at least one of the characteristics listed below:
a. Are permanent.
b. Leave residual disability.
c. Are caused by nonreversible pathological alteration.
d. The patient must be given special training to rehabilitate.
e. The patient may require a lengthy period of supervision, observation, or care.
The following is an example of a state statute (Connecticut) defining the term.
Pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 19a-250, "chronic illness" means conditions which require prolonged definitive hospital or restorative care as distinguished from diseases or conditions which may be properly cared for in convalescent, custodial or domiciliary facilities.
