If you were hurt at work in Colorado, you may receive an impairment rating during your workers’ compensation claim. This rating can affect the benefits you may receive. Knowing what an impairment rating means can help you better understand your claim.
What is an impairment rating?
An impairment rating shows how much a work injury has caused a lasting loss of function. Colorado shows this loss as a percentage of whole body impairment. A doctor gives this rating after you reach maximum medical improvement. This means your condition is stable and more treatment is not expected to make a major change.
The rating shows how your injury affects your body. It may measure problems with movement, strength or daily tasks. For example, a shoulder injury that limits movement or strength may receive a 10% impairment rating. Colorado uses this rating to help determine some workers’ compensation benefits.
How doctors decide your rating
Doctors follow medical guidelines when they decide your impairment rating. These guidelines come from the American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. In Colorado, a Level II accredited physician must determine your impairment rating. The physician may be your authorized treating doctor or a Division-sponsored Independent Medical Examiner. The doctor may check:
- How well you can move
- How much strength you have
- Changes in feeling or sensation
- Other lasting limits
Every injury is different. Your rating depends on your injury and how it affects your body.
During the exam, the doctor may check your condition, review your medical records and order tests. You can help by explaining your symptoms and how your injury affects your work and daily life.
How your rating affects your benefits
Your impairment rating may affect your permanent partial disability benefits. Colorado uses different methods to calculate these benefits. For some injuries, the calculation may include your rating, age, 400 weeks and your temporary disability rate. A higher rating may lead to more benefits in some cases.
For example, a 15% whole body impairment rating may result in more benefits than a 5% rating. The amount depends on the type of injury and how Colorado classifies your loss.
What if you disagree with your rating?
If you believe your rating does not show the full effect of your injury, you may be able to challenge it. You may request another medical review if you meet the requirements. A state-approved doctor may review your injury through a Division-sponsored independent medical examination. Medical records and other doctor opinions may also help explain your concerns. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you review your case and explain your options.
Protecting your benefits
Your impairment rating can affect the benefits available after a work injury. Review your rating carefully. Keep copies of your medical records and ask questions if something seems incorrect. Keeping your records organized can help you understand your claim and make informed decisions during the workers’ compensation process.