What criteria must be met for presumptive 100% awards?

The criteria for presumptive 100% awards in the context of workers' compensation typically include significant and severe conditions such as the loss of both hands or the use of both hands. This criterion is based on the understanding that certain injuries are so debilitating that they automatically qualify for the highest level of compensation without needing additional proof of how the injury affects the individual's ability to work or perform daily activities.

The loss of both hands represents a complete and permanent loss of function, impacting a person's ability to work, perform self-care, and engage in most daily living activities, thus justifying a 100% disability rating. This provision serves to acknowledge the profound impact such an injury has on a person's life and their earning capacity.

In contrast, while other options might involve serious conditions or situations, they do not meet the threshold of severity associated with a presumptive 100% award. For instance, referral to a specialist or an injury requiring long-term therapy indicates the need for ongoing medical care or expertise but does not, on their own, warrant a 100% disability rating. Similarly, temporary inability to work and the effects of an injury requiring long-term therapy may lead to various levels of disability ratings, but neither guarantees the presumptive award of 100%.