What Is MMI After A Work Accident? What To Know
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a term used in workers' compensation cases to describe the point at which an injured worker's condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve significantly with further medical treatment. This does not mean that the worker has fully recovered or that they will never need further medical treatment, but rather that they have reached a plateau in their recovery. This milestone signals a change in benefits for some hurt workers. Read on to learn more.
Will Your Benefits Change?
When a worker reaches MMI, their doctor will evaluate their condition and determine the extent of their permanent impairment, if any. This assessment is used to determine the worker's eligibility for workers' compensation benefits, including disability benefits and compensation for medical expenses.
The determination of MMI is important because it can affect the amount of workers' compensation benefits that the injured worker is entitled to receive. For example, if a worker is permanently disabled as a result of a work accident and has reached MMI, they may be eligible for ongoing disability benefits. They may also be entitled to other benefits like a settlement.
What Is a Settlement?
When a doctor has rules for an injured worker to be at MMI, they may be entitled to a lump-sum settlement. This settlement is meant to replace the income of the worker. The amount the worker is paid varies and can be negotiated. It's vital that injured workers seek the help of a workers' compensation lawyer after being ruled at MMI. This type of lawyer can help with several issues.
What Can a Workers' Comp Lawyer Do for You?
If you agree with the MMI ruling, you will need help figuring out how much money the workers' compensation insurer owes you. The amount you are owed depends on your age, former salary, disability, and more. If you are able to perform certain types of work, for example, it can affect your settlement.
Your lawyer can also help if you disagree with a ruling. For example, if the workers' compensation doctor has declared you to be ready to go back to work, you must seek help. Don't return to a job when you are hurt by an injury or illness. Speak to a lawyer and find out about your rights to an appeal process.
It is important to note that the determination of MMI is a medical decision and should be made by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have been injured on the job, it is important to seek medical attention and follow your doctor's instructions to ensure that you receive appropriate medical care and that your workers' compensation claim is properly evaluated.
For more info, contact a local workers' compensation lawyer.
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