Who determines impairment at the reconsideration level?

The determination of impairment at the reconsideration level is made by a medical arbiter physician. This role is crucial because the medical arbiter physician is a specialist who reviews the medical evidence and assesses the extent of an individual's impairment based on established guidelines and criteria. Their expertise helps ensure an objective and thorough evaluation of the medical condition, which is essential for accurately determining the severity of impairment as it relates to workers' compensation claims.

The medical arbiter's assessment may include clinical examinations, review of medical records, and possibly additional testing, providing a comprehensive overview that is critical for making informed decisions about the claim. They aim to provide an unbiased second opinion, which is particularly valuable when there may be differing opinions regarding the level of impairment from various medical providers.