Colorado's Unique Impairment Rating System
Colorado uses a statewide, standardized impairment rating scale to determine permanent disability payments for workers' compensation claims. Unlike some states that rely on a single medical board, Colorado requires a licensed physician or a board‑approved medical professional to assess the claimant's functional loss. The rating is expressed as a percentage, with 0 % indicating no permanent impairment and 100 % indicating total loss of function. This scale directly translates into the amount of monthly benefits and the duration of the claim.
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Key Factors in Calculating Ratings
- Diagnosis and Severity – The specific injury or illness and its long‑term impact on mobility, sensation, or cognition.
- Functional Limitations – How the injury affects daily activities, work tasks, and the ability to perform other jobs.
- Medical Evidence – Test results, imaging, and physician reports that corroborate the injury's permanence.
- Rehabilitation Progress – Evidence of improvement or plateauing during therapy.
Standard Evaluation Forms
Colorado requires the use of the State Disability Rating (SDR) form, which standardizes the assessment of physical and mental impairments. The form includes sections for the type of injury, body part affected, and a detailed functional assessment. Completing the SDR accurately is critical; errors can delay payment or reduce the rating.
Common Impairment Categories
Impacts are grouped into categories that reflect the nature of the injury. Each category has a maximum possible rating, but the final percentage is determined by the physician's clinical judgment. For example:
| Category | Typical Rating Range |
|---|---|
| Upper Extremity | 0–30 % |
| Lower Extremity | 0–40 % |
| Spinal Cord Injury | 0–80 % |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | 0–70 % |
Appealing a Rating
If a claimant believes the rating is too low, Colorado allows a formal appeal within 30 days of the initial decision. The appeal process involves a medical review panel that can request additional testing or a second opinion. Successful appeals often hinge on presenting new evidence that demonstrates a higher level of functional loss than initially documented.
Preparing for Your Assessment
- Gather all medical records, including imaging and therapy notes.
- Document daily limitations with specific examples.
- Keep a detailed injury log to show progression or stagnation.
- Consult a workers' compensation attorney early to ensure all paperwork meets state requirements.