Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) Definition

In workers' compensation claims, the point when an injured worker's condition isn't expected to improve further with more treatment, at least in the near future. Once a worker has reached MMI, the worker can be evaluated for permanent disability.

In personal injury law, including car accident claims, the term maximum medical improvement describes the time when an injured person has fully recovered or stabilized enough for doctors to have a clear picture of what ongoing care will be necessary. Personal injury lawyers typically advise plaintiffs to hold off on signing a settlement agreement until they've reached MMI.