Suffering a serious injury at your workplace can be a scary time in your life. You may wonder what your doctor will say about your prospects for recovery. Many workers do not get an answer right away. With some treatment and rehabilitation, a full recovery is possible, but not always.
At some point, your doctor will tell you that you have reached maximum medical improvement. This will inform what kind of workers’ compensation benefits you may or may not receive if you still need assistance.
The definition of MMI
According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website, MMI occurs when a doctor determines that no further treatment or rehabilitation will improve your condition beyond its current state.
At this point, your doctor will assess what activities you are capable of performing. You may have fully recovered, so achieving MMI should be good news. However, if your injuries have left you with a disability, you will probably receive a disability rating from your doctor.
Possible benefit outcomes
When you reach MMI, whatever temporary benefits you receive will likely come to an end. If you have recovered from your injuries, this will probably not be a problem since you can return to work. On the other hand, you may have permanent disabilities.
If you end up with a disability, you may be eligible for disability benefits. Permanent partial disability benefits are for workers who may be able to work but have some impairment. If you have no chance of gainful employment, you might receive permanent total disability benefits.
Be sure of your condition
Receiving an MMI is nothing to take lightly. You should know if you have undergone all available or feasible treatments to heal your injuries. You might visit another doctor for a second opinion on whether you still have a chance to medically improve. Once you know your current state of health is permanent, you may better understand your options for benefits if you still need them.