How Is Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Determined?

What Is Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)?

PPD benefits are payable for the permanent functional loss of use of the body based on a disability schedule. It is separate from wage loss benefits. 

Employees injured at work in Minnesota are eligible for PPD benefits if they have a permanent loss of function, amputation, hearing or vision loss, and other permanent impairments. A healthcare provider’s opinion is essential in determining the appropriate rating for the work injury, which is typically evaluated using the schedule outlined in the Minnesota Administrative Rules Chapter 5223.

How Is PPD Calculated?

The amount of money paid is based on the rating provided by the healthcare provider and multiplied by a specific dollar amount to calculate the benefit payable. 

For example, if an individual has a back injury at work involving multiple vertebral levels of the lumbar spine that is supported by objective clinical findings (findings on examination or imaging studies), the rating would be at least 10% under Minn. R. 5223.0390.

The 10% rating for this type of work-related back injury would result in a PPD benefit amount of $8,400 based on the multipliers outlined in Minn. Stat. 176.101. This benefit amount is subject to changes in the law and monetary adjustments.

What Is a Weber Rating?

If there is no specific schedule for a certain injury, the courts have allowed a “Weber” rating, which allows the healthcare provider to provide an alternative PPD rating. 

We frequently see Weber ratings in cases involving work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and consequential psychological injuries (anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc. resulting from a work injury). 

DID YOU KNOW

• An injured worker’s PPD rating is typically determined once the employee reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI) and the full extent of permanent impairment can be evaluated. 
• Calculating a PPD rating is more complicated in circumstances involving multiple body parts, multiple dates of injury, apportionment between injuries and requires a different legal analysis and calculation.
• PPD ratings are strictly based on the Minnesota Administrative Rules and Minnesota Statutes and do not consider the impact the injury has had on an injured worker or pain and suffering. 
• PPD benefits cannot be paid until temporary total disability (TTD) benefits have stopped. However, PPD benefits can be paid at the same time temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits are being paid. 
• When PPD is not disputed, the insurer must make a minimum lump sum payment or begin periodic payments to the employee within 30 days of a minimum rating or receipt of a medical report containing a rating. A lump sum may potentially be subject to a discount.
• Different rules apply if the PPD rating is disputed. 

Fighting for Injured Minnesota Workers

If you’ve been injured on the job in Minnesota, hiring a workers’ compensation attorney is the best path forward. At Meshbesher & Spence, we’ll help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and ensure you receive the benefits to which you’re entitled.

For years, we’ve specialized in helping injured Minnesota workers, providing the guidance and assistance they need to protect their rights and get the compensation they deserve.

Don’t fight alone. Contact our law firm to help you file your workers’ compensation claim today.