Impairment Services

AMA Guides Impairment Ratings Erroneously Elevated – Best Practices Approach is Expert Review of All Impairment Ratings

The AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, Fifth Edition are the standard for defining the impact of an injury or illness. Unfortunately the vast majority of ratings are incorrect, typically overrated and the errors are often undetected. This observation was observed in our 2005 study and reconfirmed in our current study. The conclusion is that all impairment evaluation reports should be reviewed by an expert on the Guides – this intervention is very cost-effective.

California Study

Of 658 California impairment critiques performed between July 2006 and February 2007, 571 (87%) were incorrect, with the average original rating 18.7% whole person permanent impairment (WPI) and the average revised (corrected) rating 4.9% WPI. Review of 73 consecutive cases from one client revealed an error rate of 82% among the ratings performed, with the average original rating of 12.3% WPI and the revised (corrected) rating of 3.7% WPI. View Press Release. The marked difference in ratings between the old PDRS were predicted in our May 17, 2005 Workers Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau study

View a presentation by Dr. Brigham presenting the findings, examining the causes of the errors, and providing specific strategies you can use to assure accurate ratings - View Handout

National Study

Of 874 national impairment critiques performed between July 2006 and February 2007, 751 (86%) were incorrect, with the average original rating 18.5% whole person permanent impairment (WPI) and the average revised (corrected) rating 5.2% WPI. In the automobile casualty arena every impairment rating was incorrect. View Press Release - View Presentation - View Handout

Solutions

We provide comprehensive solutions, including the expert review of all ratings –a very cost-effective strategy - ranging from low cost impairment screen ($95), impairment rating reviews ($495 or less), to detailed impairment physician reviews. In addition to persuasive reports, we database the results. Referrals can be made conveniently online. We also offer consultation and training – including our highly acclaimed www.guidesiq.com online training and webinars.

It is very important that you choose the best resource for your reviews. We are the only organization that answers yes to each of these questions.