Factors Affecting Permanent Partial Disability Ratings in Workers’ Compensation
نویسندگان
چکیده
Using a new and rich data source on permanent disability claims, this article explores two issues relating to permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. First, the process of determining the final disability rating, which affects the actual level of PPD benefits, is modeled. Differences between the initial impairment rating provided by the treating physician and the final disability rating are investigated to determine what factors, in addition to physical impairment, influence the determination of the final permanent, partial disability rating and, hence, the amount of indemnity benefits. This investigation highlights and measures some of the equity concerns inherent in establishing PPD benefits. Second, the influence of the final disability rating on the dollar amount of the permanent partial and total indemnity benefit award is measured. The empirical findings suggest that the same injuries, as measured by a physician impairment rating, may receive very different final disability ratings and thus have very different claim costs as a result of factors unrelated to the injury. These differences are magnified across states.
منابع مشابه
Permanent Partial Disability Awards and Wage Loss
Physicians handling workers compensation cases serve in a dual capacity not required of physicians treating non-workers compensation cases. Not only are they are asked to treat the workers’ injuries and disability symptoms, but they are also frequently asked to evaluate the extent of economic damage done to a worker via the assignment of an impairment rating to certain types of injuries. Althou...
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