24 Oct If You Need An Independent Medical Exam For Your Workers’ Comp Claim

You may very possibly be asked to attend an independent medical examination if you have recently filed a workers’ compensation claim. Independent medical exams (IME) are usually requested when there is a question as to whether or not the benefits you are seeking is viable. Because this IME can have a severe impact on the amount of benefits you receive, you should be aware of the general purpose of the exam and how it can affect your case.

Keep in mind that the IME doctor is most often hired by your employer (or its insurance company) when it disagrees with your course of treatment or disability rating. However, an IME may be ordered by your state’s workers’ compensation agency (often known as the Division of Workers’ Compensation or Bureau of Workers’ Compensation), or even by your own attorney to counter an IME requested by your employer or the state agency. Additionally, you may have to attend multiple IMEs so that each side has a chance to have you examined by a medical provider of its choosing.

Guidelines For Workers’ Compensation IME

• Did a workplace accident or exposure actually cause your condition? For example, is it possible that you developed this condition in a different manner, through your activities or other off-duty conduct?
• Has your condition been correctly diagnosed? For example, do you have the condition for which you have filed a claim?
• Did a workplace accident or exposure cause your condition? For example, is it possible that you developed this condition in a different manner, through your activities or other off-duty conduct?
• What is the extent of your impairment? The examiner will typically be asked to assign you an impairment rating, stated as a percentage of how much a certain body part, or your body as a whole, has been impaired as a result of your condition. This is important, as this impairment rating will determine how much you will receive in permanent disability benefits.
• Will you require additional treatment? Have you reached maximum medical improvement and would not significantly benefit from further treatment? If you do need more treatment, what sort of treatment is necessary and medically appropriate?
• Do you need work restrictions? What restrictions are appropriate? When will you be able to return to work (if at all)?

Familiarize yourself with your medical history. Being informed will help make this process easier and faster.

Contact Workers’ Compensation Attorney Jeffrey M. Bloom – Free Consultation

The IME is a very important step in securing your workers’ compensation claim. Information is the key. Getting the right information and having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in your corner is a huge part of greeting your claim finalized. Contact Mr. Jeffrey M. Bloom at (855) 208-3650.