Disability Assessment (Loss of Working Capacity)

Disability assessment in the context of compensation claims evaluates the permanent reduction in a person's working capacity following injury or illness. The central question is not merely "what is the rate?" but rather "which framework was applied, and how was the rate determined?"

The assessment determines the extent to which permanent sequelae affect the individual's occupational earning capacity. The same permanent impairment may have very different functional consequences depending on the claimant's specific occupation. A fine motor deficit in the hand is career-ending for a surgeon but may have limited impact in other roles.

Loss of working capacity evaluates how permanent sequelae affect the individual's ability to work and earn a living. Disability/impairment relates to functional limitations in daily life activities and social participation. Before discussing a "rate," it is essential to clarify which framework applies and for what purpose.

• Timing: Assessment before sequelae have stabilized yields different results than post-stability assessment.
• Criteria applied: Some reports address temporary incapacity, others permanent sequelae.
• Assessment system: Different rating systems applied to the same clinical data produce different numerical results.
• Data set: One report may have limited records while another has rehabilitation data and late sequelae documentation.