Workers
Compensation

Workers Compensation Glossary

A-D

Claim Form – The official document you complete and submit to start your workers compensation claim. The name of this form will depend on the state.

 

Compensable Injury – An injury or illness that qualifies for workers compensation benefits.

 

Disability Rating or Impairment Rating – A percentage assigned by a doctor to indicate the extent of permanent impairment.

E-M

Independent Medical Exam (IME) / Medical-Legal Evaluation / Qualified Medical Exam (QME) – An evaluation by a neutral doctor to confirm your medical condition and treatment needs.

 

Light/Modified Duty – Work that is less physically demanding than your regular job that fits your doctor’s work restrictions during your recovery.

 

Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – The point at which your condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve further.

 

Medical Mileage Reimbursement – Payments for travel costs to and from medical appointments related to your claim (varies by state).

 

Medical Provider Network (MPN) – A group of approved doctors and healthcare providers authorized to treat workers compensation injuries.

 

Medical Provider Panel – A list of approved medical providers.

N-T

Permanent Disability (PD) – Benefits provided if your injury or illness causes lasting limitations.

 

Return-to-Work Program – A plan that helps you transition back to work safely, often including modified duties.

 

Settlement – An agreement between you and BHHC to resolve your claim.

 

Subrogation – When the insurance carrier seeks reimbursement from a third party responsible for your injury.

 

Temporary Disability (TD) – Payments you receive when you temporarily cannot work your usual job and/or hours due to a work-related injury or illness.

 

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) – Benefits when you can work, but earn less due to restrictions.

 

Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – Benefits when you cannot work at all during recovery.

U-Z

Utilization Review (UR) – A process where medical treatment requests are reviewed by qualified professionals for medical necessity.

 

Vocational Rehabilitation – Services that help you learn new skills or find a different job if you cannot return to your previous position. May be in the form of a voucher or a retraining program.

 

Waiting Period – The initial time after your injury before wage replacement benefits begin.