1. What is the AMA Guides Combined Values Formula?

The AMA Guides Combined Values formula calculates the combined effect of multiple impairments using a specific mathematical approach from the American Medical Association Guides. This method provides a standardized way to combine multiple disability ratings.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the AMA Guides combined values formula:

Where:

• \( A \) — First impairment value (unitless, between 0-1)
• \( B \) — Second impairment value (unitless, between 0-1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the non-additive nature of combining multiple impairments, where the effect of each additional impairment is applied to the remaining unimpaired portion.

3. Importance of Combined Values Calculation

Details: Accurate combined values calculation is crucial for disability assessments, workers' compensation evaluations, and determining appropriate compensation levels for multiple impairments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter impairment values A and B as decimal numbers between 0 and 1. Both values must be valid (0 ≤ value ≤ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use this specific formula for combining values?
A: This formula is standardized in the AMA Guides and provides a consistent, medically accepted approach to combining multiple impairment ratings.

Q2: What do the input values represent?
A: The values represent impairment percentages expressed as decimals (e.g., 0.25 = 25% impairment).

Q3: Can I combine more than two values?
A: Yes, you can apply the formula sequentially: combine A and B first, then combine that result with C, and so on.

Q4: Why isn't the result simply A + B?
A: Impairments don't add linearly because each additional impairment affects the remaining unimpaired portion, not the total original capacity.

Q5: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula assumes impairments are independent and may not account for specific interactions between different types of impairments.