What is the purpose of a permanent impairment rating in workers' compensation?

The purpose of a permanent impairment rating in workers' compensation is to evaluate the degree of lasting disability that an injured worker has sustained as a result of their occupational injury or illness. This rating serves to quantify the extent of the impairments to bodily functions or structures that will affect the individual's ability to work and carry out daily activities.

A permanent impairment rating is particularly crucial in determining compensation for injuries that have a lasting impact on the worker’s life, as it often influences the amount of permanent disability benefits they may receive. These ratings typically generate from established guidelines or standards within the medical community, and their assessment is vital in helping both the injured worker and the insurance carrier understand the long-term implications of the injury.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of workers' compensation, such as temporary benefits or medical expenses, rather than the evaluation of permanent disability, which is the specific purpose of a permanent impairment rating.