When a client returns to work after an injury, what payment rate applies until the IME report is received?

The correct answer is the permanent partial disability rate. When a client returns to work after an injury but has not yet received the Independent Medical Examination (IME) report, the benefits that are typically provided during this transition period are based on the permanent partial disability rate.

This situation arises when an employee has suffered an injury that may not completely impede their ability to work but does result in some level of permanent impairment. The permanent partial disability rate compensates for the long-term impact of the injury while the worker may still be recovering or adjusting to their new work situation post-injury.

Understanding this rate is crucial as it reflects the ongoing assessment of an employee's capability to perform their job versus the prior standards, which is an important aspect of workers' compensation in West Virginia. The other rates do not apply in this scenario; for example, temporary total benefits would be relevant only if the worker was unable to return to work at all.