Rating Gastroesophageal Reflux – Fifth Edition
Question: In California, physicians are often asked to rate conditions that may be attributable, directly or indirectly, to a work-related injury. Will you please provide guidance on the rating of gastroesophageal reflux due to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories prescribed for a patient with a musculoskeletal injury? I often see patients being rated for GERD using Table 6-3, Criteria for Rating Permanent Impairment Due to Upper Digestive Tract (Esophagus, Stomach and Duodenum, Small Intestine, and Pancreas) Disease (5th ed, 121), and being assigned to class 3 because they are believed to meet the criteria of “symptoms and signs of upper digestive tract disease, or anatomic loss or alteration” and “appropriate dietary restrictions and drugs do not completely control symptoms, signs, or nutritional state.” This class is associated with impairment of 25% to 49% whole person...
