Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a legal and medical term used in Ohio workers’ compensation claims. It means that an injured worker’s condition has stabilized and is not expected to significantly improve with additional medical treatment or therapy. MMI does not mean that the worker is fully healed, only that their recovery has reached a plateau.
Who Decides if I Have Reached MMI?
MMI can be determined in several ways:
- Treating Physician: If your treating doctor finds that you have reached MMI, they report this to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). If this determination is accepted, Temporary Total Disability (TTD) compensation is automatically terminated as of the effective date of that finding.
- BWC-Scheduled Examination: The BWC can schedule you for an extent of disability exam to determine if you are still temporarily totally disabled or have reached MMI.
- Employer-Scheduled Examination: Your employer may also schedule an extent of disability examination for the same purpose.
If the physician conducting the exam concludes you have reached MMI and your treating doctor disagrees, the matter is referred to the Industrial Commission of Ohio for a hearing and final decision.
What Happens to My Compensation at MMI?
A finding of MMI results in the termination of Temporary Total Disability (TTD) compensation. However, this does not affect your right to continue receiving medical treatment necessary to manage the allowed conditions in your claim.
Depending on the nature of your injury and residual impairment, you may still be eligible for other benefits, such as:
- Wage Loss Compensation
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Can My MMI Status Change?
Yes. If your condition worsens after being declared at MMI and you again become temporarily and totally disabled due to the allowed conditions, you may be entitled to renewed TTD compensation. Updated medical documentation is required, and the issue may again be reviewed by the BWC or Industrial Commission.
What if I Disagree with the MMI Determination?
If you or your physician disagree with a finding of MMI by a BWC- or employer-sponsored examiner, the issue will be referred to the Industrial Commission of Ohio. At that hearing, you can present additional medical evidence, and a hearing officer will make a final determination regarding MMI and your entitlement to further compensation.
Need Help Understanding MMI and Your Workers' Compensation Rights?
If you're unsure about your MMI status or if your compensation has been affected by an MMI determination, we can help. At The Justice Law Firm, we advocate for injured workers across Ohio and provide clear, experienced guidance through every stage of the workers' compensation process.
Call us today at (614) 543-1320 to schedule a consultation.