There are many potential issues in a workers' compensation claim in Ohio. One important issue is maximum medical improvement. MMI essentially means the worker's medical condition has stabilized and improvement is unlikely in spite of physical rehabilitation and other treatments.
When MMI is reached, the Bureau of Workers' Compensation in Ohio or the Industrial Commission (IC) will end the temporary total (TT) compensation if there is no disagreement regarding the medical decision. If there is a need for the medical treatment to continue to stabilize the condition of the worker, it can proceed. If the worker becomes temporarily and totally disabled in the future, then the benefits can resume.
MMI is determined by the treating physician. Information will be submitted to the BWC to this effect. TT will be paid to the day before the MMI becomes effective. There may be an independent medical examination (IME) and a report as to whether or not the worker has reached MMI. When the treating physician agrees with the assessment, the TT will cease. If there is disagreement, the claim will be sent to the IC for a hearing and a final decision. Benefits can continue to be paid until the day of the hearing.
Workers who have their TT benefits ended might be able to receive rehabilitation, coverage for wage loss with the opportunity to return to work at lower wages and modified duty, a percentage of permanent partial disability payments, a lump sum settlement, or permanent total disability. When a worker is informed that he or she has reached MMI after a workplace injury, there is often fear and concern as to what happens next. Speaking to a legal professional about medical expenses, workers' compensation benefits, workers' compensation claims and anything else related to these circumstances is key to dealing with any workers' compensation case.
Source: bwc.ohio.gov, "FSMM -- Maximum Medical Improvement," accessed on Aug. 23, 2016
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