Which impairment rating schedule is used to rate impairment for finger motion in workers' compensation cases?

• A. 1987 schedule
• B. 1997 schedule
• C. 2007 schedule
• D. 2017 schedule

Answer: (B)

Finger motion impairment in workers’ compensation is measured using a standardized table found in the AMA Guides, which translates loss of motion into a numeric impairment percentage. In California, the schedule adopted specifically for rating finger motion impairment is the 1997 edition. A clinician assesses how much the finger’s range of motion is reduced, compares it to normal motion, and then uses the 1997 schedule to determine the impairment percentage. This standardized approach ensures consistent, objective ratings across cases. The other schedules correspond to different editions or different body parts and are not used for finger motion impairment in this context.