What is meant by "disability rating"?

Disability rating refers to a systematic approach to quantifying the level of permanent disability that a worker has sustained as a result of an injury or medical condition. This numerical evaluation is essential in the context of workers' compensation and is used to determine the benefits that a worker is entitled to receive due to their disability. The rating essentially reflects the impact that the disability has on the worker’s ability to perform their job and engage in typical daily activities.

The process of determining a disability rating typically involves an examination by a qualified medical evaluator who assesses various factors, including the medical diagnosis, the specific limitations resulting from the condition, and the overall functional capacity of the individual. A clear and standardized disability rating helps ensure that compensation and support are appropriately allocated based on the severity and permanence of the disability.

In contrast, a qualitative assessment of a patient's ailment focuses more on the subjective aspects of the patient's condition rather than the quantifiable impact on their work life. An estimate of the cost of medical care relates to the financial implications of treatment rather than the patient's ability to work following an injury. Meanwhile, an assessment of temporary work restrictions provides information about what a worker can or cannot do in the short term, rather than establishing a lasting disability rating that reflects permanent impairment. Therefore