THE WORK DISABILITY EVALUATION PROCESS APPLIED TO NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENT

The advent of computerized software and hardware programs, incorporati ng well researched data bases, including normative data, performance v alidation techniques, and video-biomechanical analysis, have improved the data acquisition process and accuracy of functional ability evalua tions. The blend of this higher technology with reality based domain t esting of worker function, allows for a more complete understanding of an individual's true functional abilities. The principles of an objec tive assessment process will be integrated with a discussion of impair ment as it applies to the peripheral nervous system. A case study will illustrate principles of permanent impairment and job-specific disabi lity, utilizing the American Medical Association Guides, 4th edition. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.