Reduction in earning capacity (MdE) in the German statutory accident insurance: State of current discussion and results of the expert group

Abstract

The expert group under the auspices of the German statutory accident insurance (DGUV) comprehensively, systematically and scientifically analyzed reduction in earning capacity (MdE) values for limb loss in an interdisciplinary methodological approach to review their relevance. The basis for the proposals of new MdE values is the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) related health and functional disorders that resulted in a grouping of comparable handicaps. The study examined which limitations on the labor market can be assumed today for insured patients with specific accident-related functional restrictions. For this purpose, a scientific literature search and a survey of the relevant occupational science institutes of the Federal Republic of Germany were carried out. As a result, however, it was not possible to generate valid labor market data on employment opportunities related to specific physical disorders. In order to fulfill the mandate and the requirements of § 56 (2) sentence 1 of the Social Security Statutes VII (SGB VII) under the given circumstances, the multiprofessional group of experts applied its interdisciplinary knowledge on dysfunctions and effects on working world and developed new MdE benchmarks, which were each derived, differentiated and justified. The proposals of the expert group should lead to a socially, legally and politically acceptable consensus and thus guarantee that the accident benefits based on the MdE will continue to fulfill their important role as a factor for social satisfaction.