What Happens After Reaching Maximum Medical Improvement?
by
James M. Hoffmann on Nov. 01, 2024
Employment Workers' Compensation
Summary: Learn the crucial next steps after reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) in your workers' compensation case, including benefit changes and settlement options.
Understanding Your MMI Status
When you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), your doctor has determined your condition won't significantly improve with additional treatment. This significant milestone in your workers' compensation case triggers several important changes.
Changes to Your Medical Benefits
After reaching MMI, you may still require medical care. Your treatment plan typically shifts to:
- Maintenance care to prevent deterioration
- Pain management treatments
- Regular monitoring of your condition
- Prescription medications
Impact on Work Status
Your ability to return to work after MMI falls into several categories:
1. Return to Regular Work
You may return to your previous position without restrictions if you've fully recovered.
2. Permanent Restrictions
Your doctor may assign permanent work restrictions if you have lasting limitations. Your employer must determine if they can accommodate these restrictions.
3. Light Duty Modifications
Some workers require permanent light duty accommodations after reaching MMI.
Changes to Your Benefits
Reaching MMI affects your workers' compensation benefits in several ways:
Temporary Benefits
Your temporary disability benefits typically end when you reach MMI.
Permanent Benefits
You may qualify for permanent disability benefits if you have lasting impairment. These can be either:
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Settlement Considerations
MMI is often the point at which settlement discussions begin. Key factors to consider include:
- Future medical needs and costs
- Permanent disability ratings
- Ability to return to work
- Need for ongoing treatment
Disputing MMI Status
If you disagree with your MMI determination, you have options:
- Request a second medical opinion
- Submit additional medical evidence
- Challenge the determination through proper legal channels
Next Steps After MMI
- Get a copy of your medical records and MMI report
- Understand your permanent restrictions, if any
- Discuss accommodation needs with your employer
- Consider settlement options
- Consult with a workers' compensation attorney about your rights
Protecting Your Rights
After reaching MMI, you still have important rights. Consider consulting with a St. Louis workers' compensation attorney to ensure you receive appropriate benefits and understand your options for moving forward.
If you experience pain while performing assigned duties after MMI, document your symptoms and seek immediate medical attention. Your condition may have changed, requiring an independent medical examination to reevaluate your work status.
Reaching MMI is a significant milestone in your workers' compensation case, but it's not the end of your rights or benefits. Understanding your options and taking appropriate action can help ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve under Missouri law.