The study assessed the predictive ability of the standardized Multi- perspective Multi-dimensional Pain Assessment Protocol (MMPAP). An assessment tool which predicts return to work with chronic pain patients is needed, as increasing numbers of disability applications are adjudicated in the courts.
Each MMPAP consisted of physical examinations by two physiatrists, and the participant's subjective assessment. Criterion standards were MPI and MPQ. Phone follow-up occurred six-months post decision.
The six clinical sites were ambulatory referral centers, both public and private.
Participants were a population-based random national sample of 710 Social Security disability applicants claiming chronic pain related to their disability, stratified by national SSA applicant demographics.
No interventions were continued or initiated by the research team between assessment and follow-up.
Claimant employment status six-months after disability decision was the primary outcome measure with change in pain intensity and change in employment situation as secondary outcome measures
Results indicated that the MMPAP predicted, with 90% accuracy, employment status of SSA disability applicants with chronic pain six-months post- decision when assessed at application by two physicians trained in PM&R. Accuracy of employment situation change was
93%, and pain intensity change was 65%. Self-report measures, physical examination results, psychological status, functional limitations, and physician's subjective appraisal predict future employment.
In conclusion, the MMPAP accurately predicts future employment of disability applicants claiming chronic pain. The introduction of this standardized protocol will assist in standardizing disability determination for claimants with chronic pain.
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