1. The title “AMA Guides to the
Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, Fifth Edition”
not correctly stated.
2. Impairment rating performed by the treating
physician.
3. Maximal medical improvement not defined, or
impairment rating performed prior to one year from
date of injury.
4. From a defense perspective, the rating is 5%
whole person permanent impairment or greater. From a
plaintiff perspective, the rating is less than 5%
whole person permanent impairment.
5. Fails to document an adequate clinical evaluation
and analysis, as specified in Section 2.6, Preparing
Reports and for specific chapters in Principles of
Assessment.
6. Reference to specific Figures, Tables and page
numbers in the Guides is absent.
7. The term "disability" used, when should be
referencing "impairment".
8. Rating of subjective complaints, without specific
objective findings.
9. For the spine, rating by Range Of Motion Method,
without clear explanation of rationale and
confirmation of reliable motion measurements.
10. For the spine, Diagnosis Related Estimate higher
than Category III (unless a single level fusion).
11. For the upper extremity, ratings of the hand,
carpal tunnel syndrome, grip strength or “other
disorders.”
12. For the lower extremity, use of more than one
method or ratings for gait or arthritis.
13. Ratings for mental / behavioral disorders or for
pain.
