Key Factors Affecting Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
After a serious injury, recovery can be a long and challenging process. In some cases, reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is part of pursuing fair compensation. MMI is the point at which a treating physician determines that a patient has recovered as fully as possible.
Reaching MMI has significant implications for Florida personal injury claims, insurance settlements, and future medical care. If you want to learn more about how MMI could impact your situation, connect with a Miami personal injury lawyer.
Severity of Injury and Commitment to Rehabilitation
The nature and extent of an injury plays a primary role in determining how quickly and fully an individual can reach MMI. For example, fractures may require a few months of recovery, while traumatic brain injuries or spinal injuries could take years, with some resulting in permanent impairments. A clear understanding of injury severity allows for better insight into realistic recovery timelines and achievable health milestones.
It is also important to recognize that the quality and timeliness of medical treatment significantly impacts how quickly a patient reaches MMI. Immediate care, proper diagnosis, and a well-tailored treatment plan can make a substantial difference.
Commitment is also key. Adhering to prescribed rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, can improve strength, mobility, and flexibility over time. Rehabilitation often requires a patient’s active participation to maximize recovery potential, which can directly affect how soon they reach MMI. Injured parties who commit to their physical and occupational therapy plans are more likely to reach MMI sooner and achieve better overall outcomes.
Considering a Second Medical Opinion
Sometimes, an injured person may feel that their MMI has been declared too soon or that further treatment options haven’t been fully explored. Then, seeking a second medical opinion can be beneficial.
A new healthcare provider might identify alternative treatments, additional therapies, or provide a more comprehensive assessment. Injury attorneys often have relationships with other medical professionals who can offer independent evaluations, and some attorneys include options in their contracts to connect clients with these specialists. This collaboration can help ensure that the injured party receives the most accurate prognosis and treatment options.
Insurance companies use improvement milestones to calculate potential settlements. If the injured party reaches MMI with significant impairments or disabilities, these long-term consequences need to be factored into the settlement to cover future medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can be instrumental in managing the complexities of reaching MMI. Attorneys work closely with healthcare professionals to gather thorough documentation, ensure accurate assessments, and determine the true costs of current and future care. They can also help clients seek additional medical evaluations if they believe MMI has been declared prematurely, ensuring all treatment options are considered.
Is there conversation within your healthcare team about transitioning you away from active treatment? With an experienced injury attorney by your side, you can navigate a maximum improvement determination with confidence. The legal team at Spencer Morgan Law can secure the compensation you need. Book a confidential consultation today, call 305-423-3800.