An employee suffering from a workplace injury may want to focus on recovery and returning to work. However, the workers’ compensation process may sometimes involve an additional medical evaluation.
During the process, the insurance company could request an IME, leaving an injured worker wondering why another doctor needs to evaluate their condition and whether the examination could affect their benefits.
What is an IME?
An independent medical examination is an evaluation done by a physician who is not a part of the worker’s ongoing treatment team. The purpose is to assess the injury, treatment needs and work restrictions.
Why is an IME requested?
An insurance company may request an IME when questions arise about the nature of the injury, the need for additional treatment or the worker’s ability to return to work.
In some cases, the medical opinion of different healthcare providers may be different. An IME could be used to get another medical opinion.
Can the exam affect benefits?
The IME physician’s findings regarding the injuries of the employee might become a part of the workers’ compensation claim file. The insurance company may review the report when evaluating work restrictions, treatment recommendations and benefits.
That does not mean an IME alone determines the outcome of a claim. But this exam might be very important when any dispute arises about medical issues related to the injury.
What can workers expect during IME?
The exam might include questions related to the accident, current symptoms, medical history and treatment received after the injury. The external physician may perform a physical evaluation related to the reported injury.
Since the exam focuses more on the worker’s medical condition, the information given must be accurate and honest.
What is the role of an IME?
Workers’ compensation claims in Florida may involve disagreements about medical treatment received and the workers’ ability to return to work. In some cases, an independent medical examination might become an important part of the claims process.
For injured workers, understanding why an IME is requested and how it may affect a claim can help reduce uncertainty during the process. Knowing what to expect may help workers feel more prepared as their claim moves forward. It is critical that injured workers contact a skilled legal professional for guidance every step of the way.