Continuing Care After Reaching MMI

In accident injury cases, reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) is a significant milestone. But while it is a step toward accessing a full settlement, it does not signal the end of medical care or the importance of following up with recommended treatments.

To learn more, talk to a Delray Beach personal injury attorney about how essential it is to continue care after MMI, both for ensuring long-term health and to safeguard legal interests. Lawyers are available to guide you through the recovery process, whether you have just been diagnosed with an accident injury or at a point where MMI is in reach.

MMI and The Importance of Follow-Up Treatment

Referring to the stage in medical treatment where an injured individual’s condition has stabilized, MMI typically means that further improvement is unlikely. Reaching MMI means that a person has healed as much as possible and their condition is now considered stationary. At this point, physicians can evaluate the extent of any permanent harm and assess the need for ongoing care.

There are key reasons to follow all recommendations and guidelines given by a healthcare team.

• Managing long-term health. Even after reaching MMI, individuals may require treatment to manage chronic pain, physical limitations, or other long-term effects of their accident injuries. Regular visits with healthcare providers ensure that any emerging issues are promptly addressed.
• Preventing deterioration. Post-MMI care can help prevent the deterioration of the injury. Physical therapy, medication management, and other treatments can maintain function and mobility, preventing secondary complications that could arise from untreated conditions.
• Adjusting to new circumstances. MMI may mean adapting to a new normal. Continued care helps individuals learn how to cope with any permanent impairments, pain management techniques, and lifestyle adjustments to improve their quality of life.

A completion of active care is a pivotal point in the recovery process, but it is not the end of the journey. Additional assessments may be essential for managing long-term health, preventing complications, and protecting your legal interests.

It is Crucial to Follow Doctor Recommendations

Even after a settlement is reached, not adhering to doctor recommendations can result in legal complications. After all, insurance companies and opposing legal teams scrutinize medical records and treatment adherence. Failing to follow prescribed treatments can be used against you, leading to suggestions of your injuries not being as severe as claimed or of you not making a genuine effort to recover.

Consistent medical care provides documentation of ongoing issues. This record is essential and can be used by your Delray Beach personal injury attorney to justify your need for continued care and other damages. Listening to medical advice reduces the risk of relapse or worsening conditions, so you can maintain the progress made and avoid setbacks that could complicate your life.

Were you told you’ll soon be reaching MMI? Have a conversation with the knowledgeable attorneys at Earnhart Law about securing the settlement amount you’ll need for bills today and expenses in the future. Our team has over 30 years of experience, call 561-265-2220 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.