How is a permanent disability rating evaluated?

A permanent disability rating is evaluated primarily through a disability evaluation and a rating schedule. This process involves the assessment of an individual's functional impairments resulting from a work-related injury or illness and how these impairments align with established guidelines set forth in the rating schedule, such as the state's official disability rating systems or the American Medical Association (AMA) Guides.

The evaluation will typically include a thorough medical examination by qualified professionals, who will analyze the extent of the disability in terms of both physical and mental factors that affect the person’s ability to perform work-related tasks. The specifics of the rating schedule, which provides standardized criteria, assist in assigning an appropriate rating based on measurable aspects of the disability, allowing for consistent evaluation across different cases.

This systematic approach ensures that evaluations are grounded in objective medical assessments rather than relying solely on anecdotal evidence or personal opinions. It contrasts with methods that would involve comparisons to other employees or administrative experiences, which may lack the rigor and objectivity required in the formal evaluation of permanent disability.