What Happens After You Reach MMI in Iowa

[Astro1962]

I reached MMI today for a knee injury requiring knee surgery. The IC accepted the claim....what happens next? Does the IC always have you receive an impairment rating or do I need to request this?

[controlfitter]

I thought that mmi was max medical improvement. how could you be at mmi if you need surgery? or am I missing something something. ask the lawyer who reprensents you for answeres

[Astro1962]

I HAD a knee injury that required surgery. I've had surgery already and am at MMI.

[tony]

Astro1962

I reached MMI today for a knee injury requiring knee surgery. The IC accepted the claim....what happens next? Does the IC always have you receive an impairment rating or do I need to request this?

They will send you to one of their doctors for an IME.
They will assign an Impairment Rating based on his evaluation.
You have a right to a one time evaluation by a doctor of your choice to give an alternate opinion at the employers expense.

Here's a good explanation of Iowa's "body as a whole" disabilities and how they are rated, see pg. 7
http://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.iowabar..._semelroth.pdf

Now's a good time to retain a lawyer to protect your rights and have peace of mind - you'll be money ahead also.

Tony

[Astro1962]

Thank you for your help! It's appreciated!

[Astro1962]

They requested an impairment rating from the surgeon that did my knee surgery. It has been almost 3 months since then, and the insurance company has not shared the impairment rating with me. I asked them about an IME with a doctor other than the surgeon and they said, "I can do that on my own, but they do not need to consider that doctor's opinion". I'm thinking I need to retain an attorney at this point.....anyone agree, disagree?

[controlfitter]

you should have had one from day 1. they know the in' s and out's. now's when you need one more than ever