For example in NC, a doctor makes a subjective decision on permanent impairment after worker achieves maximum medical improvement. - say 5% of the injured part. The statute has a schedule of “values” for each body part which is equal to max # of weeks of compensation. So an arm = 240 weeks. 5% of 240 is 12 weeks of compensation at her comp rate (2/3 of average weekly wages) If you don’t agree with rating you can request a second opinion. Typically non-surgical injuries are not rated but that isn’t always true. Daughter just needs to plead with the treating physician that she still has pain or limited range of motion or brings up future medical treatment in case it flares up (maybe a steroid injection is needed in the future). In NC you have 2 years after the last medical/indemnity paid to reopen the claim due to change or worsening of condition. ** Edited by HOKIE at 4/23/2026, 5:15:40 PM