Quick Answer
Guide to Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) in New York workers' comp including when MMI is reached, Schedule Loss of Use ratings, and benefit transitions.
Reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a critical milestone in your New York workers' compensation case. MMI determines when temporary disability ends, triggers your Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) rating, and begins permanent disability benefits.
What Is MMI?
Definition: Medical condition has stabilized and unlikely to improve significantly
Key points:
- Condition plateaued
- Further treatment won't produce major improvement
- Doesn't mean healed or pain-free
- Doesn't mean pre-injury status
Who Determines MMI?
Authorized treating physician: Doctor managing your care
Can dispute: If disagree with MMI determination
IME doctor: Carrier's doctor may give opinion
WCB Law Judge: Final authority if disputed
What Happens at MMI?
Temporary disability ends: TTD stops
SLU rating assigned: For scheduled members (arm, leg, hand, foot, etc.)
Classification: For non-scheduled injuries (back, neck)
Work restrictions finalized: Permanent limitations
Return to work evaluated: Ability to work
Schedule Loss of Use (SLU)
For scheduled members: Specific body parts
Doctor determines: Percentage of permanent loss (0-100%)
Award calculated: Loss % × maximum weeks for body part
Benefit amount: 66.67% of AWW
Learn more: New York Workers' Comp Benefits
Temporary Disability After MMI
TTD stops: Once MMI reached
Last check: Week of MMI
Transition to: SLU or permanent disability benefits
Medical Treatment After MMI
Treatment continues: MMI doesn't end medical care
Lifetime medical: No time limit
May include:
- Ongoing medication
- Periodic visits
- Future surgery if needed
- Pain management
Disputing MMI or SLU Rating
Common disputes:
- MMI too early
- SLU rating too low
- Wrong body parts rated
Your options:
- Request second opinion
- File for WCB hearing
- Present contrary medical evidence
FAQs
Q: What is MMI in New York workers' comp? A: Maximum Medical Improvement—when condition stabilized and won't improve significantly.
Q: Who decides when I reach MMI? A: Your authorized treating physician.
Q: What happens to benefits at MMI? A: Temporary disability ends, SLU or permanent disability benefits begin.
Q: Can I still get medical treatment after MMI? A: Yes, medical benefits continue for life.
Q: What if I disagree with my SLU rating? A: Can dispute at WCB hearing with contrary medical evidence.
Q: Can I work while receiving SLU? A: Yes, SLU payments not reduced by work earnings.
Related Topics
- New York Workers' Comp Benefits
- Returning to Work in New York
- Settlement Negotiations
- New York Workers' Compensation Overview
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Maximum Medical Improvement in New York workers' compensation. MMI and SLU determinations significantly affect benefits. Consult a qualified New York workers' compensation attorney to ensure accurate evaluation.
Last updated: January 5, 2026
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