Dealing with Your Workers’ Compensation IME

If you sustained an injury in the workplace and filed a claim for workers’ compensation, your employer will ask you to complete an Independent Medical Examination (IME). This examination is to ensure the benefits you receive are proportional to your injuries. During an IME, a doctor will assess the current state of your injuries, how long you will be unable to work, and if you are able to return to work at all. Because this medical exam has a significant impact on what kind of benefits you are entitled to receive, it is important to know what to expect so you can ensure the compensation afforded to you is fair.

Often, IME’s are requested by an employer when there is a question or dispute about the benefits you should receive. The employer or the employer’s insurance company usually hires the doctor conducting the IME. However, it is common for your state workers’ compensation agency or your own attorney to request another IME. Unfortunately, some IME doctors may have a bias towards your employer, and they will raise questions about whether you are getting the fair examination to which you are entitled. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., our proficient workers’ compensation attorneys can ensure your interests are represented so you receive all the benefits owed to you.

Questions During an IME

Before the IME, it is important to have a good understanding of how the accident happened, along with your past medical history. The examination usually aims to answer a number of questions related to your medical condition, including:

• Was your condition correctly diagnosed?
• What caused the workplace accident or hazardous exposure you claimed?
• What is the extent of your impairment?
• Do you need additional treatment or testing?
• Do you require work restrictions?
• What is the extent of your working ability?
• Will you be able to return to work? If so, when?

During your examination, it is important to be forthright about your condition and not exaggerate your symptoms—inflating symptoms can seem more suspicious to a doctor and do more harm than good. Honesty about your situation will be more likely to earn you the benefits you deserve.

Consult with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Ensuring you receive the compensation you need to support your family after a workplace accident can be confusing. The dedicated workers’ compensation lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. are here to advocate on your behalf and guide you through the entire process. If you are in need of legal assistance for your workplace injury, don’t hesitate to contact us at (248) 948-9696 to discuss the details of your case.