Impairment Ratings
Objective measurement of permanent impairment for workers' compensation, based on the AMA Guides.
About this care
An impairment rating is an objective measurement of permanent impairment that remains after an injury has healed as much as it is expected to. It is typically expressed as a percentage and is commonly used in workers' compensation cases.
A rating is performed once a person reaches maximum medical improvement, the point at which the condition is stable and not expected to change substantially in the next year. The evaluation uses the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, a standardized framework used by most state workers' compensation systems.
The rating relies on objective measurements, such as joint range of motion. In some cases a physician asks a therapist to take these measurements and calculate the rating using the AMA Guides, which the physician then reviews. Arkansas workers' compensation specifies which edition of the AMA Guides applies, and we follow the applicable standard.
Who it is for
- Injured workers who have reached maximum medical improvement
- Physicians who need standardized impairment measurements
- Workers' compensation insurers and adjusters
- Case managers coordinating claim resolution
- Employers involved in a workers' compensation claim
- Attorneys handling workers' compensation matters
What to expect
- 1
A rating is performed only after maximum medical improvement is reached.
- 2
The evaluator takes objective measurements such as joint range of motion.
- 3
The findings are applied to the AMA Guides to calculate the impairment.
- 4
A written report documents the measurements and the resulting rating.
- 5
The rating is provided to the requesting party for use in the claim.
How it can help
Common questions
When is an impairment rating done?
After the person reaches maximum medical improvement, meaning the condition is stable and not expected to change substantially within the next year.
What standard is used?
The AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. Arkansas specifies the applicable edition, and we follow that standard.
Is an impairment rating the same as a disability rating?
No. An impairment rating measures permanent physical impairment. How that translates into disability or benefits is determined separately within the workers' compensation system.
Ready to feel better?
Call either location to schedule, or reach out with questions about your insurance and benefits. We are glad to help you figure out the next step.