Workers compensation Scheduled Loss

of Use for Visual System/Auditory System/Facial Scars

and Disfigurement

You’ve arrived to the correct location if you were injured at work and are unsure what “Scheduled Loss of Use” (SLU) implies for your Visual System/Auditory System/Facial Scars and Disfigurement.You could receive a compensation payment from the Workers’ Compensation Board if you qualify.

Our report will state that because of your work-related accident, you have lost function in the harmed body part indefinitely. Workers’ Compensation Guidelines for Determining Impairment are followed in our report. The provisions of this article are based on New York state workers compensation guidelines.

Visual System Introduction

This chapter’s goal is to offer standards for use in assessing permanent impairment brought on by dysfunction of the visual system, which includes the eyes, ocular adnexa, and visual pathways. There is a method offered for calculating visual impairment brought on by a work-related injury. A payment plan can then be created using this information.

The scheduling criteria are 🙁 1) Loss of uncorrected or corrected visual acuity for distant objects, (2) Visual field loss, and (3) Diplopia. These three functions serve as the foundation for evaluating visual impairment. Without the coordinated operation of all three, vision is flawed even though they are not equally critical.

When there is a facial or eye defect that is noticeable, this is scheduled on a case-by-case basis.
To evaluate the functions of the eye, the following tools are required:

  1. Distance vision visual acuity test charts; preferred charts include the Landolt’s broken-ring chart, the illiterate E chart, and the Snellen test chart with letters and numbers.
  2. A perimeter of the Goldmann type or an automated perimeter where the degree of the visual field is measured.
  3. Refraction instruments, recent refraction reports, or reports of recently prescribed glasses.
  4. A red-glassed hand-held light.
  5. The slit lamp.
  6. An ophthalmoscope.

Criteria and Methods for Evaluating Permanent Impairment

Central Visual Acuity

It should not be filthy or stained on the chart or reflecting surface. The far test distance simulates infinity at a minimum of 4 m. and a maximum of 6 m (13 ft. 1 in.).
When using traditional eyeglasses or not, the central vision should be measured and noted for distance.

The use of contact lenses may help eyesight that has been hampered by irregular astigmatism brought on by a disease or injury to the cornea. Correction with contact lenses is appropriate if there are no contraindications, the patient is accustomed to wearing them, and they are desired.

The distance at which the smallest letter that the patient could distinguish would subtend 5 minutes of arc, or the distance at which an eye with 20/20 vision could see that letter, should be used to calculate visual acuity for distance. This value should be expressed in feet or meters. Because it is more convenient, the fraction notation does not indicate a proportion of visual acuity.

The following steps should be followed to determine if one eye has lost its central vision:

  1. Determine the optimal central visual acuity for distance with and without contact lenses or conventional corrective eyewear.
    Set the schedule in accordance with Table 1 for the larger of the uncorrected or corrected vision loss (in the injured eye).

Visual Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss of vision can be a very distressing occupational hazard. We rely on our sense of sight to guide us through daily life, so losing it suddenly, even if it only results in diminished vision; can be upsetting in addition to the physical difficulties it brings.

Visual Fields

A perimetric approach with a white target is used to estimate the size of the visual field. If the Goldmann bowl perimeter with a 30 cm radius is used, the III/4 e target in the kinetic mode ought to be used.

Calculating Visual Field Loss

The steps taken to determine the loss of visual field are as follows:

  1. Using Figure 11.2 of a visual field chart, plot the size of the visual field along each of the eight major meridian lines (a-2).
  2. Based on Table 11.1, calculate the percentage loss to schedule (a-3)

Example of Perimetric Charts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: These charts are used to plot extent or outline of visual field along the eight principal meridians, separated by 45-degree intervals.

Visual Field Loss

 

 

 

 

In addition: sum of 8 principal radii of peripheral field add up to 420. This is 100% industrial visual field efficiency. To calculate: Add 8 principal meridians of patient’s peripheral field (x)
x/420 = % Efficiency (y)
100-y% = % Loss to Schedule for Eye

Determining Schedule for Diplopia

Perform a red-glass test, chart the degree of diplopia within a 30-degree field, and calculate using Schedule loss for the wounded eye. Add the schedule for central vision loss and visual field loss in the affected eye to the percentage loss for diplopia.

Diplopia

 

 

 

 

 

Hearing Loss

The inner ear is highly sensitive to loud noise (cochlea). Hearing loss can result through repeated exposure to extremely loud noises or by listening to loud noises for extended periods of time. The cochlea’s cells and membranes can be harmed by loud noise. Long-term exposure to loud noise can overwork ear hair cells, which can lead to cell death.

As long as the exposure continues, the hearing loss worsens. Even after the exposure to noise has ended, negative consequences could still exist. In most cases, damage to the auditory nerve system or inner ear is irreversible.

Three months must pass after a worker quits their job or is shielded from loud noise at work before they can file a claim for a hearing loss caused by their job (can be by way of effective protective devices). The worker’s date of disablement is regarded as the final day of the three-month removal period.

Occupational Hearing Loss

Audiometric tone tests are carried out in accordance with these criteria, which in essence measure the capacity to hear speech normally, at frequency levels of 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000 Hertz (Hz).

Results are averaged across the four frequency ranges, and if the threshold at which a person can hear sound is 25 dB (decibels) or less, no hearing impairment is thought to exist.

Hearing loss is estimated to be percent for every decibel above 25 dB that an ear’s hearing level exceeds, reaching 100 % at 92 dB. The employee would have a % hearing loss in that ear if their hearing level was 41 dB.

The figure is then added to the percentage of hearing loss in the worker’s poorer ear. The percentage of hearing loss in the worker’s better ear then multiplied by 5. The result is the worker’s overall percentage of hearing loss for which benefits are paid out, which is calculated by dividing the sum by 6.

Traumatic Hearing Loss

Traumatic Hearing Loss: This condition can be brought on by a blow to the head, an intense airburst in the ear, etc.

The approach used to assess the severity of hearing loss brought on by trauma differs from that used to assess hearing loss brought on by occupational illness.
A scale based on 250 Cycles Per Second (CPS) to 4000 CPS is used to measure percentages.

The time frame for both ears to completely stop hearing is 150 weeks, while the time frame for each ear is 60 weeks. The proportion of loss in each ear is added together, totalled, and then divided by 2 to determine the loss.

For example:
25% in right ear
40% in left ear
65% total loss
Divide 65% by 2, which equal 32½ %.

Most of the time, a physical exam won’t reveal any distinct alterations. The following tests may be performed:

  • Audiology/audiometry
  • MRI of the brain
  • A head CT scan

Facial Scars and Disfigurement

  1. One year after the last surgical procedure or one year after the injury, permanent scars and disfigurement of the face and neck are typically assessed.
  2. Scars and other neck-related disfigurement are confined to the area above the clavicle.
  3. Detailed information on the scar and disfigurement should be provided, including its specific location as well as its length, width, color, and contour.
  4. Particular mouth, nose, ear, and eye disfigurement should be noticed.
    • Common eye disfigurement include corneal scarring, iris deficit, and in extreme cases, complete eye loss with the use of a prosthetic.
    • Nasal septal deviation, hypertrophy, and tissue loss are typical nose disfigurements
    • Common lip disfigurements include soft tissue loss, swelling, and changes to the lips’ natural contour.
    • Common ear disfigurements include tissue loss and changes to the ear’s natural contour.
    • The dentist’s report should be consulted if teeth are damaged.

Many industrial injuries result in scarring or disfigurement, including scars from surgeries to cure an injury. Compensation for scarring may be included in workers’ compensation; however it is not always the case. Awards were more widely accessible for many more severe past injuries.

A physician would assess the scar, no matter where it was on the person, upon the worker’s request. The physical would then determine a compensation amount for the scar based on its location, prominence, size, and other aspects. The prize would be expressed as cash over a specified period of weeks.

Please refer to the Workers Compensation Board website of your state or speak with your Workers Compensation attorney for more information.

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Dr. Nakul Karkare is awesome! And patriotic! Thank you, Dr. Karkare for displaying the American Flag in your waiting room, honoring and mourning our military personnel, this Memorial Day, who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Dave
00:52 30 May 23
Excellent and skilled orthopedic practice specializing in joint replacements. Dr Karkare was trained at the Hospital for Special Surgery and has excellent results, as do his associates!! Would gladly refer family members to the practice!!
Eclectic54
00:24 30 May 23
I had such a wonderful experience with Complete Orthopedics in Stony Brook. Not only did Dr. Kuo fix my broken wrist with such kindness and care, but the office staff, including Billing, Reception and the X-Ray Technician, was always so helpful, going out of their way to ensure that each patient felt welcome, answering any questions with a smile, and ensuring any issues with insurance/billing were handled with the utmost professionalism. I highly recommend their practice!
Victoria DeMatteo
19:49 10 May 23
I'm very happy St. Catherine's sent me to this office for treatment after I broke my collar bone! Unfortunately the break was too severe to repair on its own and I had to have it rebuilt a week after the injury. Dr. Vaksha did a great job fixing it. I'm three months out, and I have full use of the arm and shoulder. The whole office staff is very professional, accommodating, and welcoming. I hope to not need orthopedic services again, but Dr. Vaksha will be my number one choice if I or anyone in family suffers such am injury.
Tina Rivera
20:42 08 May 23
No one likes going to the doctor. But these people make it painless. I go for knees, hips and shoulders. At almost 70 Complete Orthopedics keeps my active life style running smoothly. Whether chasing my Grandson and even surfing again, I highly recommend them!!
Thomas Slavin
15:02 02 Mar 23
Dr. Kuo knowledgeable and competent surgeon- very good experience and more importantly great result.
Joseph McCoy
21:23 25 Feb 23
Dr Vaksha was so kind and helpful. He took extra time with us and explained things so thoroughly. Highly recommend. Office very clean.
Susan Bosinius
20:20 19 Feb 23
Dr Vaksha, is a great doctor very professional knows what he talking about. Treat patient with upmost respect. Thank You
Troy Spencer
16:46 19 Jan 23
Dr. Karkare is an amazing doctor, very caring and attentive, the girl at the front desk is very kind and helpful. .elizabeth .thank you so much .
blanca ventura
21:32 26 Oct 22
Been going to this place before my accident and after I had my knee surgery. So happy how I been treated and how well I am getting. Thank you all and specially Dr. VAKSHA for everything and getting back on track.
Ita Opico
19:01 25 Oct 22
Love this place From the minute I called I was treated kindly. When I arrived The Dr saw me right away he was compassionate and ordered the appropriate tests for me. I came back in for my follow up and had the same great experience.
Christine Rostock
21:28 23 May 22
Dr Vaksha and Dr karkare are 2 of the best orthopedic doctors around my wife Susan had a very serious broken ankle in March of 2019 she didn't think she was going to walk again Dr vaksha did an excellent surgery on her ankle he said it was his toughest he ever did he put a lot of hardware in her ankle and told her she would be alright she made remarkable recovery thanks to his surgery as of now she regained 100 percent use of her ankle she would highly recommend him to anyone. My own experience with Dr karkare has been wonderful he takes his time with you listens to what you have to say and prescribes various treatments and is very caring I would highly recommend him to anyone I would give both doctors a 10 plus rating we are very happy with them the best.
Harry Jones
23:31 19 May 22
Complete orthopedics is a wonderful place to go when you hurt or injured a great staff and wonderful doctors very knowledgeable and helpful I would recommend this place to all of my family and friends that is in me of orthopedic care I give them 10 thumbs up
Wayne Pemberton
17:39 18 May 22
The staff is very professional and helpful. Dr. Vaksha is excellent. He takes time to listen and offer suggestions to help you get better. I’m very thankful and happy to be a patient here at Complete Orthopedics.
Phoenix Rising
19:54 16 May 22
Dr.Karkare is the best. He listens to everything and explains everything I recommend him to everyone. I am so happy he is my doctor.
Myrna James
00:48 13 May 22
Dr.Kuo is amazing very attentive,caring,and passionate and staff is awsome too.Thank you for everything Dr.kuo.
Erick Murillo
23:17 12 May 22
I was in a car accident November 1 I was referred to Dr. Vaksha For shoulder surgery . I he was amazing he made me feel very comfortable and explained everything that was going to happen from surgery all the way through my physical therapy highly recommend Dr. Vaksha
Yolanda Ojeda
19:37 09 May 22
My appointment with Dr. Vaksha was amazing. Dr. Vaksha was very thorough and kind. I would refer this office to anyone who needs a great orthopedic doctor.
John Senechal
19:54 05 May 22
Scheduling my appointment was quick and easy. The staff was super friendly and down to earth. I was seen on time. The appropriate test, “x-rays” were taken before the conversation with doctor, something I really liked, test for analysis and conversation was done upfront. Dr. V had a great personality and was no BS, straight forward diagnosis and a play on next steps. I am happy I found them and would refer them to friends and family.
Sam
00:46 03 May 22
I have seen Dr. Kuo two times already and he's awesome along with his staff. Very friendly office and I'm glad to be a patient here.
Camaris A
20:01 28 Apr 22
Amazing team!! Very caring, profesional, and friendly!! Dr. Kevin Kuo, you are the best, very passionate, caring, and helping thank you for getting me better and being so kind to me! Elizabeth you the best thank you for you help always and you big smile and positive actitud❤️🙏🏼
breidy valerio
19:01 22 Apr 22
The staff is truly exceptional, they make you feel comfortable and welcomed. The doctors are amazing,always professional, compassionate and great listeners.
Elizabeth Collado
03:25 09 Apr 22
What a great place! The place is clean and organized.The staff is wonderful. Setting up physical therapy is right there as well.I'm so glad I found this place.
Donna Anne
22:45 05 Apr 22
This was my 1st time breaking something in my 27 years on this planet. I was recommended here by a friend Dr. Vashka helped me from day 1 and still continues to check in on me and my healing ankle. Would highly recommend
tyron davis
16:06 01 Apr 22
Brand new office, same great doctors! Rooms are clean, plenty of parking, physical therapy attached, Dr. Karkare and his staff are awesome. Thank you!
Emily B
02:49 24 Mar 22
Dr.VAksha is the best, I love the way he treats me as his patient, he is caring,understanding and very attentive to my needs
Mirna Caballero
14:53 03 Mar 22
Great staff. Dr. Vaksha is awesome and takes the time to listen to his patients. He is very compassionate. I would highly recommend this office.
Bebe Doyle
01:24 23 Feb 22
After suffering from a severe ankle injury Dr. V was able to help me heal and return back to work completely to a job where I stand for 12 hours a day. The office is very clean and I appreciated the reminders of my appointments via phone call and through text. The patient portal made it easy for me to access all my documents including work notes. The office staff is wonderful and Rebecca was able to schedule me with a busy schedule and awesome at answering all of my questions including referring me to a great physical therapy office. I highly recommend this office to anyone who’s looking for knowledgeable and kind orthopedic office.
Elizabeth Birchwell
21:31 28 Jan 21
The staff here are great, I was seen at the time of my appointment and was well taken care of!
Shaun Berry
18:14 07 Jan 21
They are an excellent practice. The front and back office people are amazing and so helpful. Rebecca is such a kind and understanding person. I had an issue with paperwork and she cleared it right up. Dr. Karkare is very knowledgeable, helpful, and caring.
Matt S.
19:31 18 Nov 20
Rebecca K. - What a true burst of sunshine. Very friendly and definitely an asset to the practice!
Laura Aston
18:17 17 Nov 20
Great experience, the Doctor is nice but the staff is incredible. I worked with Linda, who was profession and assisted me beyond what any person has done at other practices. Complete Ortho should be complimented for having such a person on their staff.I highly recommend this place!!!
Joe Allen
17:26 17 Nov 20
Linda and Becca they are so good ever time I come they are very nice I would tell everyone I no to come to this office..
Barbara Victor
16:45 17 Nov 20
I was rear ended in an auto accident , Dr Vashka was recommended by a friend of mine .I was experiencing Back , neck , and shoulder pain . After a thorough examination and given exercises to do at home , I am feeling much better , and I ended up avoiding surgery . The staff at Complete Ortho is extremely attentive and show great care when making an appointment and are very friendly and i never waited more than 5 minutes for my appointment . So I would strongly recommend Complete Orthopedics for any aches and pains that one might be experiencing.....
Bill Becht
04:44 17 Nov 20
It was the afternoon of Friday Sept. 24. We were in Pt. Jefferson and my wife, Mary Ann, broke her hip. We went to Mather Hospital and it was determined that she would have to have an operation to have it repaired. This would be her third time under the knife in the past year. It just so happened that we were very fortunate enough to have Dr. Karkare, who was on standby, perform the surgery. He put in a rod and two screws in her hip. She spent a few days in the hospital and then went to Gurwin rehabilitee for another few weeks.It has now been almost six weeks and we both worked the election the other day. If it wasn’t for Dr. Karkare’s expertise she never would have been able to work. She is able to walk with a walker and is doing physical therapy three times a week.We can not thank the doctor enough for the compassion and dedication that he puts into his work. It allows Mary Ann do the things that she likes to do, even on a limited basis for a while. I know that with her will, perseverance and the great work that the surgeon performed she will be back on her feet in no time.Sincerely:John V. PlumpEast Northport, NY 11731
Jack Harris
14:36 06 Nov 20
In the year of 2018 I was referred to Dr. Karkare because I was experiencing severe knee joint pain. After exhausting physical therapy and trying to labor through the pain, I had to make a quality of life decision. Total knee replacement was the only viable option. Dr. Karkare made my decision easy as he walked me through the whole process from surgery to recovery.On 12/13/19 ( Friday the 13th) I enter Lenox Hill Hospital in great hands. From the time I entered Dr. Karkare’s office for the first time until now, his staff has been amazing. Andrea the medical coordinator walked me through all the paper work and necessary preparations for the surgery. Courtesy and kind would be an understatement. Dr. Karkare went over and beyond from the wellness checks and phone calls all to assure me that I was important to him. This was the right decision no pain and no limp. Complete Orthopedics should be your choice!
Kenneth Randolph
22:18 25 Sep 20
Dr. Vadshka has a great bedside manner. He really takes his time and explains treatment options.
T Lee
12:33 09 Sep 20
I suffered with pain in both knees for years. My orthopedic doctor kept recommending knee replacement . I fought it for years, as I was just afraid. When I had no choice and could barely walk , it was recommended I see Dr. Karkare. We set up a consultation and my wife and I left his office feeling totally confident and comfortable with moving ahead with the surgery. He explained everything to us, and the office staff set everything up for us and made the process easy. So about one month after our initial meeting I had the first knee done. I was up walking mere hours after the surgery, and on the workout machines the next morning. I went home two days after the surgery, and yes walked my daughter down the aisle at her wedding only one week after the surgery without even a cane! Three months later I had the other knee done and went home the very next day. Dr. Karkare put my fears to rest . I would highly recommend him. His expertise gave me my life back. Thank you Dr. Karkare.SincerelyVito Congro
Ethel Congo
23:58 12 Aug 20
Dr Rhodin really cares for his patients. When I see him he makes sure to review my progress in detail.
Micki Cahill
15:03 08 Feb 20
My mom had a total hip replacement by dr karkare. He is the BEST orthopedic doctor.Her incision is almost invisable.She is going back for her other hip next week. The office staff is the best, love Andrea.You wont find a better doctor.
Ryan Brigandi
21:06 13 Jul 18
There is no better Orthopedic doctor you will find. Broke my ankle three places on a Saturday. Called Dr. Karkare. He had is team ready at the hospital and operated on me within 6 hours after my injury. Now After 3 months of great care by him and his staff, I am walking to normalcy.
Spacecom Tel
04:13 23 Mar 18
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