What is Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and why does it matter in a Workers’ Comp Case?
If you’ve been injured at work and are navigating the workers’ compensation system in California, chances are you’ve heard the term Maximum Medical Improvement or MMI for short. It’s a powerful phrase, and if it sounds a little intimidating, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll break down what MMI really means, how it affects your benefits, and what you should do if you’ve been told you’ve reached it.
What Does Maximum Medical Improvement Mean?
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a medical and legal milestone in your workers' compensation case. It means that, in the opinion of your treating doctor or Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME), your condition has “plateaued.” In other words: you’re not expected to get significantly better (or worse) over the next 12 months with further treatment.
This doesn’t mean you’re fully healed or that you no longer need care. It just means that for the purposes of the workers’ comp system, you've reached a point where your current level of recovery is likely to remain stable.
MMI vs. Permanent and Stationary (P&S)
Before 2005, the California workers’ compensation system used the term Permanent and Stationary (P&S). After the state adopted the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (Fifth Edition), the term MMI replaced P&S, though many doctors and attorneys still use them interchangeably today.
They both mean the same thing: you've reached a stopping point in treatment, and it’s time to evaluate long-term outcomes like permanent disability, future medical care, and work restrictions.
What happens after you reach MMI?
Once you're declared at MMI, several important steps happen:
1. You receive a Permanent Disability rating
This rating determines the level of impairment you’ve been left with after your treatment. It directly affects how much compensation you may receive as a settlement or ongoing benefits.
2. Work restrictions are issued
If your injury prevents you from doing certain tasks, your doctor will issue permanent work restrictions. These are taken seriously and may determine whether your current employer can keep you on the job.
3. Your benefits change
If you were receiving temporary disability payments, those may end once you're at MMI. You'll then begin receiving permanent disability payments, which are often lower. For example, while temporary disability pays up to two-thirds of your weekly wage, permanent disability maxes out at $290 per week in most cases. A big difference for many injured workers.
Can you be declared MMI too early?
Yes! and it happens more than you’d think. Some doctors, especially those tied to insurance companies, may declare you MMI before you've had access to proper treatment, tests, or surgery. This is known as being prematurely deemed MMI and can have serious consequences.
👉 If this happens, you may have options:
Request a second opinion
Consult a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME)
Get legal representation to fight the decision
Is MMI the end of your treatment?
Not necessarily. If you settle your case with open medical, you can still receive treatment for your injury through the workers' comp system. If you opt for a compromise and release settlement, which is a lump sum payout, you’ll be responsible for your own future medical costs.
You might also like: Reimbursements you are eligible for Work Comp Claims.
So... should you feel good about reaching MMI?
That depends. For many, reaching MMI means the finish line is in sight. It can bring closure and allow you to move on with your life. But if you’re not ready, or if you’ve been denied adequate care, it can feel frustrating and even scary.
The key is to make sure you’re truly at MMI and that your rights have been respected along the way.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights
Remember, MMI is more than just a medical term; it’s a turning point in your case. It affects:
Your benefits
Your ability to work
Your potential settlement
Your access to future treatment
If you’re unsure whether you’ve been fairly declared MMI, or you feel your case is being rushed, don’t wait to get help! Legal guidance can make all the difference in securing the treatment and compensation you deserve.
📞 Need advice? Contact Pacific Workers’ for a free consultation. Our team has helped thousands of injured workers navigate the complexities of MMI, permanent disability, and more. You can also give us a call at (800) 606-6999.
About the Author
Bilal Kassem President and Co-founder
Bilal Kassem is the co-founder of Pacific Workers and a nominee for Applicant Attorney of the Year. With a deep-rooted passion for helping injured workers, Bilal leads with empathy and empowers his team to deliver world-class service from the very first interaction.
Bilal has helped thousands of injured workers in California navigate the workers’ compensation system, especially key stages like Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). His deep experience allows him to understand how MMI affects both medical care and long-term outcomes, ensuring fair results through a strategic and compassionate approach.