Maximum Medical Improvement in Workers’ Comp Claims

Trusted Counsel from Proven Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Glendale

Maximum medical improvement, or MMI, is an important concept for those receiving workers' compensation benefits. Simply put, MMI is the point at which doctors determine the patient has recovered as much as they can and do not foresee the patient getting any better. Usually this puts both the patient and the workers' compensation provider at a turning point in the claim—and conflicting interests may clash.

At the Law Offices of Wax & Wax, we understand the uncertainty and concern injured workers can have when it comes time to declare MMI. We always act to protect our clients’ long-term interests and well-being. Whether you need to release your employer from your workers' compensation claim or fight your workers' comp provider for the appropriate continuing benefits, our team can help aggressively and competently pursue your goals.

Learn more when you contact us at (818) 946-0608. 

What Happens when You Reach MMI?

The reason why MMI can become such a contentious issue in a workers' compensation claim is because this is the point at which it can be determined that the workers' compensation provider should provide long-term benefits to the claimant. The provider may want to challenge the MMI determination in order to reduce or eliminate that possibility. If your workers' compensation doctor declares MMI, it is important to secure documentation of their findings. The workers' compensation provider will also be notified and either decide to further provide benefits or seek another opinion.

Continuing workers' compensation benefits after MMI can include:

• Percentage of (or total) permanent disability
• Rehabilitation
• Lost wages
• A lump sum settlement

What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Benefits Stop after MMI

If your treating physician has declared MMI or if your employer has requested an Independent Medical Examination (IME) which resulted in a declaration of MMI, the workers’ compensation provider may attempt to terminate your benefits. In fact, in many cases, benefits cease on the very day MMI is declared. For many workers who have suffered an injury that has left them partially or wholly disabled, this can obviously lead to immense stress. After all, if you are unable to return to work at fully capacity or at all, how will you be able to continue medical treatment? How will you continue paying your bills and caring for yourself and your family?

If you have found yourself in this situation, we encourage you to reach out to our Glendale workers’ compensation attorneys as soon as possible. You may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. You may also be able to challenge the MMI decision and reinstate your workers’ compensation benefits. However, it is crucial that you work with a qualified attorney, as the laws and processes surrounding this issue are incredibly complex.

With over 100 years of collective experience and Board Certification in Workers’ Compensation Law, our attorneys are prepared to put their skill and expertise on your side.