Prognosis states the anticipated trajectory of a condition, including whether improvement, stability, or deterioration is expected and over what period. It informs projections of future treatment need and permanent limitation.
It is expressed with varying degrees of certainty.
Alternative Names:
Medical Prognosis, Expected Outcome
Why it Matters?
Prognosis is the medical foundation of every future damages claim, and the recurring defense issue is whether the stated prognosis rests on documented findings or on the patient's reported symptoms. A prognosis of permanent disability supported by objective measurements is difficult to challenge; one resting entirely on subjective complaints is vulnerable. Earlier prognostic statements in the treating record frequently differ from those given for litigation.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What supports a credible prognosis?
Where do inconsistencies appear?
