After you file a workers’ compensation claim, you may be required to have an independent medical examination (IME). The insurance company will choose a physician to evaluate your medical condition and give an expert opinion regarding certain aspects of your case, including what medical treatment is necessary, whether you are able to return to work, and whether you have a temporary or permanent disability. It is important to know how to prepare and what to expect for an IME.
How to Prepare for Your IME
Because the doctor performing your IME is chosen by the insurance company, he or she is not always impartial. Therefore, you should be prepared to represent your best interests before, during, and after the exam. Prior to the exam, ask in writing for a copy of the letter sent by the claims adjuster for your employer to the IME doctor so you can ensure your medical condition was described correctly.
The IME doctor will likely ask you several questions pertaining to your injury. Be sure to review your medical history as you will probably be asked about any previous injuries to the part of your body injured in the workplace accident. Also, review how the accident happened so you do not inadvertently contradict your statements in earlier reports. Finally, you will probably be asked about your treatment history, so be familiar with your course of treatment and your current pains, limitations, and other symptoms.
What to Do During Your IME
Be polite, respectful, and honest during your IME. It is important that you describe your injuries accurately and do not exaggerate your symptoms. However, also do not downplay your symptoms. Be honest about any pain and limitations you are experiencing because of your injury.
Also, be sure to inform the IME doctor about any previous injuries you sustained to the same body part. Be prepared to explain how the symptoms of your previous injury are different from your current injury. If possible, take notes during the exam about the duration of your visit, the questions you were asked, and the tests you were given.
What to Do After Your IME
After your exam, the IME doctor will write up a report. It may be prudent to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer who can review the report for any mistakes, request a second-opinion IME, file objections, and depose the original IME examiner if necessary. A qualified workers’ compensation attorney should also be able to explain all your legal options and pursue all appropriate legal actions to obtain compensation for your injuries.
Philadelphia Work Injury Lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Help Injured Workers Through the Entire Claims Process
If you sustained a workplace injury and are facing an IME, contact an experienced Philadelphia work injury lawyer at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. We can help you prepare for your exam and ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire workers’ compensation claims process. We represent clients in Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County. Call us at 888-PITT-LAW or complete our online contact form for a free consultation.
Our team also provides skilled representation to those residing in and around Abington, Ambler, Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd, Bensalem, Clifton Heights, Crum Lynne, Darby, Downingtown, Doylestown, Drexel Hill, Essington, Folcroft, Glenolden, Haverford, Havertown, Holmes, Kutztown, Lansdowne, Media, Merion Station, Morton, Narberth, Norristown, Norwood, Philadelphia, Prospect Park, Quakertown, Reading, Roxborough, Sharon Hill, Upper Darby, West Chester, and Wynnewood.
