Healthcare Provider Issues and Perspective: Impairment Ratings and Disability Determinations

Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States have a disability that affects major life activities. This article provides a brief historical perspective of disability determination, and revisits the conceptual foundation for understanding the current models of disablement and their general application to the major US disability systems and nuances thereof. The expectations placed on the physician-expert examiner and why the physiatrist is ideally equipped to function in this role are discussed. The article is intended to provide a heightened awareness of the medicolegal framework, potential pitfalls, and other ramifications of such undertakings.