S k y M e d i c o s
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Disability & Worker’s compensation

Our Practice Areas

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Disability and workers’ compensation claims involve determining the extent of an individual’s physical or mental impairment and its impact on their ability to work. These cases often require in-depth analysis of medical records, causation, and the connection between the injury and the workplace incident. As a medical reviewing company, we play a crucial role in supporting attorneys, insurers, and employers by providing expert analysis, detailed documentation, and strategic guidance. Below, we outline how we add value to these cases, with practical examples to illustrate our contributions.

  1. Comprehensive Medical Record Review
    • Detailed Examination of Records: We thoroughly review medical records to identify key details, such as the nature of the injury, diagnosis, treatments, and progress. For example, in a workers’ compensation case involving a back injury, our review identified inconsistencies in the treatment plan, highlighting gaps in physical therapy documentation.
    • Identifying Pre-existing Conditions: We determine whether the claimant’s condition is entirely workplace-related or if pre-existing conditions played a role. In one case, we uncovered prior medical records showing that the employee had a history of degenerative disc disease, which helped clarify the causation of the reported back pain.
  2. Establishing Causation and Liability
    • Linking the Injury to the Workplace Incident: We analyze medical records to determine whether the reported injury was caused or exacerbated by the workplace environment. For instance, in a case involving carpal tunnel syndrome, our team identified that repetitive motions required by the claimant’s job were a direct contributing factor.
    • Differentiating Unrelated Conditions: We ensure that unrelated health issues do not affect the claim. In a case where a worker alleged respiratory issues due to workplace exposure, our review revealed that the symptoms were primarily caused by a pre-existing chronic asthma condition.
  3. Disability Assessment and Impairment Ratings
    • Quantifying Disability: We assess the degree of physical or mental impairment using standardized guidelines such as the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. In one case, our team provided an accurate impairment rating for a factory worker who suffered a traumatic amputation, helping determine the level of compensation.
    • Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE): Our experts evaluate whether the claimant can perform their job duties or requires modifications. For instance, in a claim involving a construction worker with a shoulder injury, our report clarified the extent of mobility restrictions, which influenced the decision on whether they could return to work.
  4. Preparing Chronological Timelines
    • Mapping the Medical Journey: We create detailed timelines of medical events, treatments, and evaluations, allowing attorneys to clearly understand the progression of the injury. For example, in a disability claim for a knee injury, our timeline highlighted delays in treatment that worsened the claimant’s condition, strengthening the case.
  5. Expert Medical Opinions
    • Providing Authoritative Opinions: Our physicians, specialized in fields such as orthopedics, neurology, and occupational medicine, offer expert opinions on the claimant’s condition. In one case, our orthopedic specialist provided a written opinion that proved the claimant’s workplace fall caused a torn meniscus, contradicting the defense’s claim of unrelated degeneration.
    • Clarifying Complex Medical Issues: We simplify medical jargon and concepts, helping attorneys and insurers understand the medical aspects of the case. For instance, our expert explained the long-term impact of repetitive strain injuries in a factory worker, which played a critical role in securing a favorable settlement.
  6. Identifying Gaps in Documentation
    • Uncovering Missing Records: We ensure all relevant medical documents, such as diagnostic test results, treatment plans, and follow-up notes, are included. In one case, our review identified missing MRI reports, which provided critical evidence of a spinal injury caused by workplace lifting.
  7. Quantifying Economic and Non-Economic Damages
    • Estimating Medical Costs: We calculate past and future medical expenses, including surgeries, physical therapy, and assistive devices. For example, in a workers’ compensation claim for a hand injury, we estimated the costs of occupational therapy and a prosthetic hand, helping the attorney present a strong case for adequate compensation.
    • Assessing Pain and Suffering: We evaluate the emotional and psychological impact of the injury. In one case, our review included an analysis of the claimant’s medical records for PTSD caused by a workplace accident, which helped secure additional compensation for emotional distress.
  8. Strengthening Settlement Negotiations
    • Providing Comprehensive Reports: Our clear and concise medical summaries highlight key points that strengthen settlement discussions. For example, in a disability claim involving a traumatic brain injury, our report demonstrated the claimant’s need for lifelong care, leading to a favorable settlement.
    • Highlighting Weaknesses in Opposing Arguments: We identify vulnerabilities in the defense’s case. In one instance, our analysis of the defense’s medical expert testimony revealed inconsistencies with the claimant’s medical records, weakening their argument.
  9. Deposition Support
    • Deposition Preparation: We assist attorneys in preparing for depositions by identifying key medical points and potential challenges. For example, in a case involving a workplace chemical exposure, our detailed deposition summary helped the attorney effectively question the opposing expert witness.
Conclusion
By offering expert analysis, detailed documentation, and strategic support, we provide immense value in disability and workers’ compensation litigation. Our services streamline case preparation, enhance the credibility of medical evidence, and strengthen legal arguments. Whether it’s establishing causation, quantifying damages, or providing expert testimony, partnering with us equips legal teams with the medical insights needed to achieve favorable outcomes for their clients.