Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) in the context of workers’ compensation refers to the point at which an injured employee’s medical condition has stabilized. Further treatment is not expected to result in substantial improvement. This determination is significant because it often marks a transition in the claims process. For example, a physician may declare that an injured worker who has undergone surgery and physical therapy for a back injury has reached a plateau in their recovery, signifying that additional interventions are unlikely to yield further progress. At this juncture, the focus shifts from active medical care to assessing any permanent impairment.
Establishing MMI is essential for determining the extent of any permanent disability and associated benefits an injured worker may be entitled to receive. This determination has financial implications for both the employee and the employer’s insurance carrier. Historically, the concept emerged alongside the development of structured workers’ compensation systems, aiming to provide a clear benchmark for resolving claims and ensuring fair compensation for lasting injuries. This promotes predictability and helps prevent prolonged periods of uncertainty for all parties involved.
