You have been receiving treatment for a workplace injury, but your doctor now says you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). That can sound as if the doctor is saying you have recovered and your workers’ compensation claim is over – but that isn’t necessarily true.
Maximum medical improvement, or MMI, does not mean you are cured or entirely better. It means your condition has stabilized and your doctor does not expect it to substantially improve in the future even with additional treatment. In California, you may also hear this described as being “permanent and stationary.”
MMI can change the benefits you receive
Once you reach MMI, your workers’ comp doctor will generally prepare a report reflecting your condition. This report should explain whether you have any lasting impairments or have permanent restrictions on the kind of work you can perform.
Typically, this ends any temporary disability payments you may be receiving, although you may begin receiving permanent disability payments instead. If you do have permanent injuries, the doctor’s findings will also be used to calculate your permanent disability rating to determine how much those benefits will be. Factors such as your occupation, age and level of impairment can all affect the final rating and the compensation you may be due.
You may still need medical care
Reaching MMI does not automatically mean your medical treatment stops. You may continue to need medication, physical therapy, injections, medical equipment or occasional evaluations to manage your condition. If so, your treating physician’s report should indicate those expectations.
You may have ongoing occupational limitation
You may also have permanent work restrictions even after you reach your MMI. For example, your doctor might limit how much you can lift, how long you can stand or whether you can perform repetitive movements. Your employer may offer work that fits within those restrictions. If your employer cannot offer appropriate work, you may qualify for a supplemental job displacement benefit that can help pay for retraining or education.
Ultimately, reaching MMI means that your workers’ comp claim is moving toward its conclusion. At this point, it is important to make sure that you agree with your treating doctor’s assessment of your condition, limitations and future medical needs. It’s also important to carefully consider all your available options before agreeing to any settlement. Legal guidance can help you determine your next move.