If you’ve been injured at work in Orlando and are pursuing a workers compensation claim, understanding what happens when you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)is essential to protecting your rights and future.
This guide explains Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), what it means for medical treatment, permanent impairment, lost wages, and medical benefits — and how Impairment Income Benefits (IIBs) come into play once you’ve reached MMI. Whether you are dealing with a permanent disability, permanent work restrictions, or seeking ongoing benefits, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this critical stage of your workers compensation case.
What is Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and Why It Matters?
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a pivotal point in any workers compensation or workers comp claim. When your treating physician determines Maximum Medical Improvement, it means that your medical condition has stabilized — and further improvement through medical treatment is not expected.
💡 MMI does not mean you are fully recovered — many injured workers continue to have permanent impairment, permanent partial disability, or even permanent disability after MMI.
Once you’ve reached MMI, medical evidence from your treating physician and medical records will help determine if you qualify for Impairment Income Benefits and whether you may require additional medical treatment or ongoing medical care for your injured body part.
What Are Impairment Income Benefits (IIBs) and Who Qualifies?
If you have permanent impairment following a work injury, you may be entitled to Impairment Income Benefits (IIBs) under Florida workers compensation law. These benefits are designed to cover lost wages and compensate for lasting limitations caused by your injury.
You may qualify for IIBs if:
- You have a permanent disability or permanent partial disability as rated by your treating physician.
- You’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and have an official impairment rating.
IIBs are workers compensation benefits that are separate from temporary benefits and can help you manage medical bills, lost wages, and medical care needs after MMI.
How Is Your Impairment Rating Determined After Reaching MMI?
Once you reach MMI, your treating physician will assign an impairment rating — a percentage reflecting the permanent impairment of your injured body. This rating follows the Florida Impairment Rating Guide and takes into account:
- Medical evidence and medical records.
- Functional assessments, such as a Functional Capacity Evaluation.
- Medical opinion about your whole person impairment and any permanent work restrictions.
The total percentage assigned will influence how much and how long you receive Impairment Income Benefits.
How Are Impairment Income Benefits Calculated?
Your impairment rating determines the number of weeks of benefits. Here’s how it generally works:
- 1%–10% rating: Two weeks of benefits for each percentage point.
- 11%–15% rating: Three weeks for each percentage point above 10%, plus previous benefits.
- 16%–20% rating: Four weeks for each point above 15%, and so on.
The weekly benefit amount is typically 75% of your Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefit amount, capped by state maximums.
What If You Disagree with Your MMI or Impairment Rating?
If you think you’ve reached MMI too soon or that your impairment rating is too low:
- Request a second opinion from a doctor of your choice.
- Undergo an Independent Medical Examination (IME).
- Seek legal help from an Orlando workers compensation attorney to challenge the rating.
- Gather supporting medical evidence, including physical therapy reports and medical records.
Remember, insurance companies often try to minimize impairment ratings — don’t accept an unfair rating without a fight.
How Long Will You Receive IIBs After Maximum Medical Improvement?
The length of Impairment Income Benefits depends on your disability rating (impairment rating). You may receive weekly payments, or a lump sum settlement if you choose to resolve the case.
If your injury caused permanent disability or permanent partial disability, you may also qualify for ongoing benefits or permanent benefits beyond IIBs.
Even after reaching MMI, you may still get medical services, medical benefits, and medical care — including additional medical treatment for your covered illness, pre-existing conditions, or injured body part.
Why You Need a Workers Compensation Lawyer in Orlando
Dealing with Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), Impairment Income Benefits, and the insurance company is complex. A skilled workers comp lawyer can help you:
- Make sure your impairment rating and disability rating are fair.
- Negotiate a fair settlement to cover lost wages and medical bills.
- Fight for ongoing medical treatment and permanent benefits if necessary.
- Review medical records and impairment evaluations for accuracy.
- Challenge improper medical opinions from insurance carrier doctors.
Don’t let the insurance company undervalue your workers comp claim — contact us today to get the help you need.
FAQs: Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and Impairment Income Benefits
1. What does Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) mean?
MMI means your treating physician has determined you are unlikely to make further recovery, though you may still require medical care.
2. Can I get more medical treatment after reaching MMI?
Yes. You may qualify for further treatment, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care for your injured body part even after MMI.
3. What happens if I disagree with my MMI or rating?
You can request a second opinion, undergo an IME, or consult a workers comp lawyer to fight for a fair rating.
4. Can I settle my claim after MMI?
Yes. Many injured workers opt for a lump sum settlement after reaching MMI and receiving an impairment rating.
5. What if my condition worsens after MMI?
If you suffer additional impairment or worsening, you can request a re-evaluation, and your benefits may be adjusted.
Contact Us for Help with Your Orlando Workers Compensation Case
If you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and are unsure about your workers compensation benefits, permanent disability, or Impairment Income Benefits, we are here to help. Don’t fight the insurance company alone — let a dedicated Orlando workers comp lawyer fight for the compensation you deserve for your work injury. Call us now. 954-448-7355
