“MMI” is shorthand for the term “maximum medical improvement.” In 2017, that term was specifically defined in Setion 287.020 RSMO as follows: “For the purposes of this chapter, “maximum medical improvement” shall mean the point at which the injured employee’s medical condition has stabilized and can no longer reasonably improve with additional medical care, as determined within a reasonable degree of medical certainty.” In other words, when the doctor says no further care will improve your condition, you are at “MMI.” In 2017, the workers’ compensation law was amended to state clearly that TTD or TPD benefits shall be paid throughout the rehabilitative process “until the employee reaches MMI, unless such benefits are terminated by the employee’s return to work or are terminated as otherwise specified in this chapter.” Sec. 287.149.1 RSMo.
The adjuster is right. If you have reached MMI and no further care will help you, they can terminate those weekly benefits, even if you don’t go back to work right away. Of course, you are still entitled to receive compensation at the conclusion of your case for permanent partial or permanent total disability, but that could be many months after your temporary total (weekly) disability benefits end.
If you disagree with the doctor that you are at “MMI,” you will need to get an opinion from a different doctor contradicting that opinion and seek a hardship hearing if you want to contest that determination.
