Maximum Medical Improvement
If you’ve been injured on the job, California workers’ compensation can provide you with wage replacement while you are out of work and cover all of your medical expenses for as long as you need them. At some point in the process of receiving workers’ comp, you are likely to encounter the concept of “Maximum Medical Improvement” (MMI). Understanding MMI is essential for anyone pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, as it plays a significant role in determining the benefits you’re entitled to. Learn more about MMI, and if you’ve been hurt at work in Southern California, contact Ochoa & Calderón to get the benefits you are entitled to with the help of a team of skilled and experienced Riverside workers’ compensation lawyers.
What Is Maximum Medical Improvement?
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) refers to the point in your medical treatment when your condition has stabilized and is not expected to improve significantly with further medical care. Essentially, MMI is reached when you’ve recovered as much as you’re likely to from your work-related injury or illness.
It’s important to note that reaching MMI doesn’t mean you’ve fully recovered or that you won’t need ongoing medical care. Instead, it signifies that any remaining impairments are likely to be permanent, and your condition is stable enough to evaluate for long-term benefits.
Why Is MMI Important in Workers’ Compensation?
MMI is a critical milestone in your workers’ compensation case for several reasons:
- Determination of Permanent Disability: Once you reach MMI, your doctor can assess whether you have any permanent disabilities as a result of your work injury. This assessment is crucial for calculating permanent disability benefits.
- Settlement Discussions: Reaching MMI often triggers settlement discussions. Your attorney can negotiate a settlement that considers your future medical needs and any permanent disabilities.
- Medical Treatment Benefits: While you’re entitled to medical treatment for your work-related injury until you reach MMI, the type of benefits you receive may change after this point. You may be eligible for future medical care to manage your condition, but not for treatments aimed at further improvement.
How Is MMI Determined?
Your treating physician will determine when you’ve reached MMI. This decision is based on a thorough evaluation of your medical condition, including your response to treatment and the likelihood of further recovery. In some cases, an independent medical examination (IME) may be requested by the insurance company to confirm MMI and assess any permanent impairments.
What Happens After MMI?
After reaching MMI, several steps will be taken:
- Permanent Disability Rating: If you have a permanent disability, your doctor will assign a disability rating, which is used to calculate your benefits.
- Return to Work: If you’re able to return to work, your employer may offer modified duties or accommodate your restrictions. If you can’t return to your previous job, vocational rehabilitation services may be available.
- Settlement or Award: Your case may be settled with a lump sum payment or result in an award for ongoing benefits, depending on your situation and negotiations.
How Can Ochoa & Calderón Help?
Navigating the workers’ compensation system and understanding concepts like MMI can be challenging. At Ochoa & Calderón, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are dedicated to guiding injured workers in Riverside through this process. We can help ensure that your rights are protected, assist in obtaining the necessary medical evaluations, and advocate for the benefits you deserve.
If you’ve been injured at work and need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, Ochoa & Calderón at 951-470-3421 in Riverside or 844-488-0789 throughout Southern California and the Inland Empire for a free consultation. We are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
