Permanency and nature of the injury
The scope of the injury over time and the severity of the injury can influence a settlement offer. The permanence of injury is best known once the employee has reached medical stability or Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Also, many states have a schedule of payments that correspond to injury types and severity.
Known medical costs
Medical benefits are a key consideration in settlements. Medical benefits generally include all reasonable and necessary treatment for work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes doctor visits, hospital care, surgeries, medications, therapy and medical equipment.
Future medical costs
Although future medical costs can never be 100% known, comparable injuries in the surrounding geographic area can be used to help determine an appropriate estimation. The recommended course of treatment by the approved medical provider can also help assess future medical costs that may be covered in a settlement.