Massachusetts Impairment Rating Guide
Massachusetts workers' compensation governs permanent impairment rating under M.G.L. c. 152, § 35 and 36; no specific edition is statutorily required.
Which Edition?
AMA Guides Edition No Statutory Edition
Statutory Authority
M.G.L. c. 152, § 35 and 36(opens in a new tab)
PPD Calculation
Statutory Maximum Weeks 260 weeks
Partial incapacity benefits equal 60% of the wage-loss differential. Scheduled losses are compensated under M.G.L. c. 152, § 36. The AMA Guides are used where applicable to determine qualifying permanent losses, but Massachusetts does not use a universal WPI × weeks formula.
Notes
Massachusetts statutes require use of the AMA Guides where applicable but do not identify a specific edition. Many commercial surveys list Fifth Edition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which impairment rating methodology does Massachusetts require?
Massachusetts governs permanent impairment rating under M.G.L. c. 152, § 35 and 36 but does not statutorily mandate a specific edition of the AMA Guides or other methodology. Rating physicians commonly reference AMA Guides editions, but the choice is not controlled by statute.
How is permanent partial disability calculated in Massachusetts?
Partial incapacity benefits equal 60% of the wage-loss differential. Scheduled losses are compensated under M.G.L. c. 152, § 36. The AMA Guides are used where applicable to determine qualifying permanent losses, but Massachusetts does not use a universal WPI × weeks formula.
Where can I find a certified impairment rater in Massachusetts?
Browse our directory of certified impairment raters listed for Massachusetts. View the directory →
Does this information constitute legal or medical advice?
No. This page provides general statutory and methodological information for educational purposes only. Statutes change, case law shifts controlling interpretation, and individual cases turn on facts beyond what reference material can capture. Consult qualified legal counsel and a credentialed rating physician for any specific matter.
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