When to get an IME in a Workers’ Compensation Claim and Why
When an employee is injured on the job, it can be a challenging situation for both the employer and the employee. Workers’ Compensation claims are designed to provide employees with the medical care and financial support they need to recover from their injuries and return to work. Independent Medical Examinations (IME) can be helpful in situations where additional information is needed to determine the extent of the injury and the appropriate course of treatment.
Where would an IME be necessary in a Workers’ Compensation claim:
What is an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?
An Independent Medical Examination is an evaluation conducted by a physician who is not involved in the ongoing treatment of an injured employee. The purpose of the IME is to provide an objective assessment of the employee’s medical condition, including the extent of the injury, the recommended course of treatment and the employee’s ability to return to work. The IME physician will review the employee’s medical history, perform a physical examination and may order additional tests or diagnostic procedures.
When there is a dispute over the extent of the injury
Sometimes there may be a dispute over the extent of the employee’s injury or the appropriate course of treatment. In these situations, an IME can provide an objective evaluation of the employee’s condition, which can help resolve the dispute.
When the employee’s recovery is not progressing as expected
If an employee’s recovery is not progressing as expected, an IME can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the lack of progress. This can include identifying additional medical conditions, complications that may require additional treatment or a change in course of treatment.
When there is a dispute over the employee’s ability to return to work
In some cases, there may be a dispute over whether an employee is able to return to work following an injury. An IME can help determine whether the employee is medically able to return to work and identify any accommodations that may be necessary to support the employee’s return to work.
When there is a dispute over the employee’s permanent disability rating
In Workers’ Compensation claims, a permanent disability rating is assigned to employees who have sustained a permanent impairment as a result of their injury. There may be a dispute over the appropriate rating and an IME can provide an objective evaluation to help determine the appropriate rating.
When to get an IME in a Workers’ Compensation Claim and Why?
Why an IME can be helpful in a Workers’ Compensation claim:
Provides an objective assessment
An IME provides an objective assessment of the employee’s medical condition, which can help resolve disputes and ensure that the employee receives appropriate medical care.
Supports informed decision-making
An IME provides additional information that can help support informed decision-making by all parties involved in the Workers’ Compensation claim.
Helps manage costs
By providing an objective assessment of the employee’s medical condition, an IME can help manage costs by ensuring that the employee receives appropriate medical care and avoids unnecessary treatments or procedures.
Supports timely resolution
An IME can help support timely resolution of Workers’ Compensation claims by providing additional information that can help resolve disputes and ensure that the employee receives appropriate medical care.