How to Determine PPI Ratings

PPI stands for partial permanent disability. It is a percentage that is used to determine the amount of a permanent disability settlement. PPI can only be determined by a medical doctor, but there are guidelines that can be used to help determine it. The primary source used for determining PPI is the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. However, due to the significant differences found when multiple medical professionals evaluate the same patient, some places are moving away from using the AMA Guides. California, for example, no longer accepts it as a standard for impairment in worker's compensation cases. Be aware of your local regulations.

Instructions

• 1

  Evaluate your injury. The area of your body that is injured has an impact on the severity of your impairment. If your injury is localized, the percentage of impairment is likely to be lower than if your injury covers a larger part of your body.

• 2

  Consider the effect the injury has on your life. Does the injury impact your ability to continue to work in your chosen field? Even small injuries can have a large impact on your ability to earn a living and that needs to be considered when determining the level of your impairment.

• 3

  Complete any physical therapy or medical procedures before attempting to determine PPI. Remember that PPI is a measure of the permanent impairment and is only valid if there is not anticipated to be any further medical improvement.