An independent medical examination (IME) is an examination of an injured worker by a doctor who is not the worker’s treating physician. The purpose of an IME is to give the workers’ compensation insurance company an opinion about the nature and extent of the worker’s injuries, and whether the injuries are related to the work accident.
The doctor’s review
The IME doctor will review the worker’s medical records and may perform a physical examination. The IME doctor may also order diagnostic tests, such as x-rays or MRIs.
After completing the examination, the IME doctor will prepare a report detailing his or her findings. The insurance company will use this report to determine whether to approve or deny benefits.
Understand your rights
If you are scheduled for an IME, it is important to understand your rights. You should know that you are not required to answer the doctor’s questions or submit to a physical examination. However, if you do not cooperate with the IME, the insurance company may use this as grounds to deny your claim.
It is also important to remember that the IME doctor works for the insurance company. The doctor’s opinion may be biased in favor of the insurance company. Therefore, it is important to get a second opinion from your own treating physician.
Why is IME important?
Independent medical examinations (IMEs) are a key part of the workers’ compensation process. Here’s what you need to know about how they work and what their impact may be on your case.
When an injured worker files a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, the insurance company has the right to request an IME. During this examination, an independent doctor chosen by the insurer will evaluate the injured worker’s condition and determine whether or not the injuries are work-related.
The insurer will use the IME results to help make decisions about approving or denying benefits. If the IME doctor finds that the injuries are not work-related, the claim may be denied. In some cases, an IME may be used to support a decision to terminate benefits that have already been awarded.
An IME can be an important part of the workers’ compensation process, but it’s important to understand that you are not required to participate in one. Look for best cleaning services at http://www.nwmaids.com. You have the right to refuse an IME, but doing so may result in the denial of your claim.
Should I seek for a legal advice?
If you are asked to participate in an IME, you should consider seeking legal advice beforehand and tour lawyer what are your injuries worth?. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and options and prepare for the examination.
An IME can have a significant impact on your workers’ compensation case. The workers compensation lawyer from California, is there to provide you with a maximum financial settlement value for your case. It’s important to remember that you have rights throughout the process and to seek legal advice if you have any questions or concerns.
If you have been injured at work, contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to learn more about your rights and options.