What is a Non-Economic Loss Payment and Permanent Clinical Impairment?

• A non-economic loss payment (NELP) is awarded to an injured worker if there is permanent clinical impairment (PCI) resulting from a work injury.

• When a worker’s function is permanently impacted, the PCI rate recognizes the loss of function or body part. The PCI rate is established by either a documentary review or an in-person assessment. A WCB Medical Consultant reviews the PCI assessments, relying on the Alberta Guide or the American Medical Association Guide to calculate the percentage of PCI. The WCB will then award a NELP based on the PCI evaluation.

• The WCB adjusts the maximum NELP amount yearly. The PCI percentage determines the lump sum paid to the injured worker.

What WCB legislation and policies apply?

• Workers’ Compensation Act of Alberta, Sections 56 and 63
• WCB Policy 04-04 Parts I and II - Permanent Disability

What questions might your Worker Advisor ask you about the benefits you may be entitled to?

• Why do you disagree with your PCI rate?
• Do you understand how your NELP was calculated?
• To confirm if you are entitled to an enhancement factor, do you have a work-related injury to the opposing body part?Do you have a pre-existing injury to the opposing body part?
• When was your last surgery?
• Have you discussed the results of the PCI assessment and Medical Consultant memo with your doctor?
• What is your doctor’s opinion?
• Has your condition deteriorated since your last PCI assessment?

What kind of evidence might you need?

• Medical reports/opinions about your physical restrictions/conditions.
• Medical reports/opinions about your psychological restrictions/conditions.
• Second opinion regarding your PCI rate.
• Medical report/opinion supporting greater PCI rate.