If you've sustained a major injury that has affected your ability to function in life, you may consider scheduling a catastrophic injury merit screening. These screenings are often necessary for people with long-term, debilitating injuries who are trying to get compensation payments to cover medical bills, long-term rehabilitative care, and other services that are needed to help these individuals function in their daily lives and regain at least some of the physical abilities that are currently impaired. If you have questions about what a catastrophic injury merit screening involves, continue reading to get some informative answers.

How is a catastrophic injury merit screening performed?

Different screening methods may be used depending on the type of injury, but these screenings always involve a comprehensive physical examination to determine the extent of the injury and how it is impacting a person's physical health and possibly their cognitive functioning. Along with a visual examination, the doctor may order x-rays, an MRI, and other diagnostic tests so that the extent of the injury can be fully assessed. The examining doctor will take copious notes throughout the screening to document their findings so that a detailed record can be submitted to the insurance company or anyone else who is requiring the screening to be performed. Doctors usually follow guides from the American Medical Association (AMA) to determine the extent of a person's impairment and whether or not they will likely regain enough physical functioning to eventually return to work. Given the in-depth nature of these exams, a catastrophic injury merit screening may take a few hours to complete. 

What defines a catastrophic injury?

A catastrophic injury is usually classified as any physical injury that can hinder a person's ability to work or function in other important areas of life for the long term. Catastrophic injuries are sometimes permanent and require extensive care throughout the remainder of a person's life. These injuries often affect muscle, nerve, or brain functioning, and some people with these injuries have lost limbs, sustained paralysis, or experienced severe facial or eye trauma that makes daily functioning nearly impossible without assistance.

Who requires a catastrophic injury merit screening?

Anyone who is expected to pay to cover the costs that are related to a catastrophic injury may require a claimant to undergo one of these screenings to prove the extent of their injury. These screenings are often ordered by insurance companies, but you might also have to undergo screening to prove your case in court if you decide to directly sue the person or company that was responsible for your injury. 

What else might the examining doctor ask me?

In addition to questions that are related directly to your injury, the doctor will likely ask how the effects of the injury are impacting your current occupation and other daily activities. You may also be asked about your overall health history and the results of any previous diagnostic tests that were performed because of your injury. 

A catastrophic injury merit screening can be used as evidence to prove your claim and may increase your chances of getting a fair payout. You can schedule one of these screenings with a local medical provider who offers them.