What Hurt Workers Should Know About Dealing With The IME Doctor

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An independent medical examination (IME) may be called for when the workers' compensation insurer needs more information about a hurt worker's medical condition. This exam can determine whether a worker can return to work now, later, or not at all. Read on and learn what workers should know about an IME.

  1. Be prepared: Before attending the IME, gather all relevant medical records, reports, and documentation related to your work injury. Review them to refresh your memory about the details of your injury, treatment, and any ongoing symptoms or limitations.
  2. Maintain honesty and clarity: During the IME, be truthful and concise in your descriptions of the accident, injury, and its impact on your life. Clearly explain your symptoms, pain levels, and any limitations you have experienced as a result. Avoid exaggerating or minimizing your condition.
  3. Ask questions: If you have any doubts or concerns about the IME process or the doctor's opinions, don't hesitate to ask questions. Seek clarification on any medical terms or explanations that you don't understand. This will help you make informed decisions about your case.
  4. Take notes: Bring a notepad and pen to the appointment to jot down important points or recommendations from the doctor. These notes can be helpful when discussing the IME results with your attorney, insurance company, or healthcare provider.
  5. Stay calm and composed: It's natural to feel anxious or stressed during an IME but try to remain calm and composed. Avoid arguments or confrontations with the doctor, even if you disagree with their opinions. Stay focused on providing accurate information and answering questions to the best of your ability.
  6. Advocate for yourself: If you feel the doctor is not listening or understanding your condition properly, respectfully express your concerns. Politely provide additional details or examples to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of your situation.
  7. Report any issues: If you encounter any inappropriate behavior or unprofessional conduct from the doctor during the IME, promptly inform your workers' comp attorney. It's crucial to address such matters to ensure a fair and objective evaluation.
  8. Review the IME report: After the IME, obtain a copy of the doctor's report. Carefully review it to ensure accuracy and fairness. If you notice any discrepancies or inaccuracies, discuss them with your attorney, who can guide you on the appropriate next steps.

Remember, an IME is an opportunity for an impartial medical evaluation, so it's important to approach it with professionalism, honesty, and adequate preparation. Work closely with your workers' comp attorney throughout the process to ensure your rights are protected and your case is appropriately represented.

For more information, contact a workers' compensation attorney near you.

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10 July 2023

About Me

Learning About Accident Attorney Services

Hello, my name is Matthew. Welcome to my site. I am here to talk to you about accident and personal injury attorneys. When I was involved in a serious accident, I had to recover for months in the hospital. My finances suffered due to mounting medical bills and lost wages. I dealt with considerable pain through every phase of the healing process. I worked with an accident and personal injury attorney to obtain compensation for the repercussions of the accident. I created this site to help others find an attorney to work with so they too could acquire compensation following an accident.