An
orthopaedic surgeon who looks at the ex rays and does not test the physical capabilities
of a particular body part to perform its functions as an occupational therapist
does, can similarly prevent a fair and reasonable settlement discussion taking
place.
Whereas
the neurosurgeon is just that, a surgeon, the neuropsychologist does a battery
of test not limited to cognitive functioning, that will enable him to determine
if a minor brain injury has had an impact on a person’s capabilities and have
led to any incapacity. Ditto for the Orthopaedic v the OT.
The
AMA guidelines as applied by the surgeons are often incorrectly applied as they
are not trauma specialist. As such it would be in the client’s best interest to
utilize a Trauma Physician to assess the client for completion of the RAF 4
form.
The
assessment of General Damages in any personal injury matter can be better
determined with a Trauma Specialist so as to more fully appreciate the extend
of the pain and suffering the client will be exposed to in future and will
further assist in preventing the determination of General Damages being a thumb
such stuck in the old ages without taking the subjective pain and suffering of
the individual into account.
A
short period of unconsciousness can have serious future complications and any
lack of oxygen during injury can lead to future cognitive difficulties. Make
sure that you investigate all your injuries carefully and peruse the hospital
and medical reports in detail. The ambulance records form a vital part of such
an investigation as a patient that is found unconscious at the scene of the
accident should raise alarm bells. Check the time of accident and the time of
arrival of the ambulance and you will have an estimated period of
unconsciousness. As such make sure that the specialist completing your RAF 4
form is in possession of these docs and have considered them when applying the
AMA Guidelines and the narrative test.
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