PDFWAC 296-23-381
What rating systems are used for determining an impairment rating conducted by an independent medical examination (IME) provider?
The following table provides guidance regarding the rating systems generally used. These rating systems or others adopted through department policies should be used to conduct an impairment rating.
Overview of Systems for Rating Impairment
Rating System | Used for These Conditions | Form of the Rating |
RCW 51.32.080 | Specified disabilities: Loss by amputation, total loss of vision or hearing | Supply the level of amputation |
AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment | Loss of function of extremities, partial loss of vision or hearing | Determine the percentage of loss of function, as compared to amputation value listed in RCW 51.32.080 |
Category Rating System | Spine, neurologic system, mental health, respiratory, taste and smell, speech, skin, or disorders affecting other internal organs | Select the category that most accurately indicates overall impairment |
Total Bodily Impairment (TBI) | Impairments not addressed by any of the rating systems above, and claims prior to 1971 | Supply the percentage of TBI |