Workers Compensation Injury: The Importance of Impairment Physicals

According to the BLS, there are 3.4 worker’s compensation claims yearly.

You can access many benefits when you suffer a worker’s compensation injury. These include medical support, financial compensation for lost income, and funeral expense reimbursement. Filing a worker’s salary claim can be crucial to receiving these benefits.

An impairment physical can help you get the medical care you need. But the process from start to finish may be intimidating, so we have this guide to help. Keep reading for an in-depth guide on worker’s compensation injury assessments.

What Is an Impairment Physical?

It is an examination by a physician to evaluate the whole person for impairment rating. The physician will consider the patient’s age, occupation, and specific injuries.

An impairment physical will assess your range of motion, muscle strength, and function. The exam will help to identify what, if any, restrictions or limitations you have as a result of your injury.

The review’s findings establish a baseline for your treatment. It can help set realistic goals for your recovery.

How Are Impairment Ratings Determined?

Most states require the worker to undergo an IME to determine if a worker can access these benefits. A physician specializing in evaluating impairments will do the examination.

The physician will use various methods to assess the level of impairment. It includes a physical exam, a review of the medical records, and functional testing. Once the physician has determined the impairment level, they will assign a rating.

Impairment ratings are generally expressed as a percentage of the whole person. It serves as the basis for calculating permanent impairment benefits. These ratings are also used to determine if a worker is eligible for rehabilitation.

There are cases where a person may be disabled because of a spine injury. Spinal injuries are critical as they can lead to a permanent disability if not treated.

A disabled worker may get a spinal decompression procedure in case of spine injuries. There are several benefits of spinal decompression that can speed up your recovery.

Several Types of Worker’s Compensation Injury Benefits

One of the essential benefits is medical care. Employees injured on the job have the right to access compensation to pay for medical bills.

Another essential benefit of worker’s compensation is wage replacement. If employees cannot work because of an injury, they can still get a portion of their wage. This benefit can help employees cover their living expenses while unable to work.

The compensation also benefits the families of employees who died on the job. These benefits can help families cover funeral expenses. Other financial obligations may arise after the death of a loved one.

Use Your Worker’s Compensation in Case of Work Injuries

You may access workers’ compensation injury benefits for injuries because of work. You will need to undergo an impairment physical examination to receive these benefits.

This examination is essential to determine the extent of your injuries. It can also determine whether or not you can return to work.

Ask your employer about scheduled impairment physicals if you have work injuries.

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