Catastrophic injuries can have a devastating impact on your life. If you have suffered a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills as well as any lost wages. Here's what you need to know about catastrophic injuries and catastrophic injury merit screening.
What is a catastrophic injury?
A catastrophic injury is a permanent injury that prevents you from living your normal life or returning to work in a typical capacity. Catastrophic injuries can include spinal injuries, brain injuries, amputations, and burns.
What is catastrophic injury merit screening?
Catastrophic injury merit screening (CIMS) is a process by which an insurance company or other entity screens individuals who have sustained a catastrophic injury to determine whether they are eligible for benefits.
What is the purpose of catastrophic injury merit screening?
The purpose of CIMS is to ensure that only those individuals who have truly sustained a catastrophic injury and who meet the eligibility criteria for benefits receive them. By screening out those who do not meet the criteria, CIMS helps to ensure that the limited resources available for benefits are used as efficiently as possible.
How is catastrophic injury merit screening conducted?
CIMS is usually conducted by insurance company representatives, although other entities such as the Social Security Administration may also use the process. Insurance company representatives typically review an individual's medical records and/or conduct a personal interview in order to make a determination about benefits eligibility.
What are the criteria for determining whether an individual has sustained a catastrophic injury?
There is no single set of criteria that is used for all CIMS determinations. There are, however, some common factors that are often considered when determining eligibility for benefits, including:
- Nature and severity of the injury
- Individual's age
- Health status prior to the injury
- Prognosis for recovery
It is important to note that you have the right to appeal a determination, whether it is for an insurance company or the Social Security Administration.
What is catastrophic injury merit screening consulting?
Catastrophic injury merit screening consulting is a service provided by some companies to help individuals who have sustained a catastrophic injury navigate the CIMS process. These companies can provide guidance on what to expect during the screening process and how to best prepare for it. They can also help individuals appeal CIMS decisions if they feel they have been unfairly denied benefits.
If you have suffered a catastrophic injury, don't go through the CIMS process alone. Contact a consultant for help.
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