When you sustain a workplace injury, you must be treated by physicians approved by the workers’ compensation insurance provider of your employer. Meanwhile, it’s just fair that the insurer wants to ensure that competent and trustworthy medical experts determine disability. But a lot of workers have a valid reason why they do not agree with the injury assessment of their treating doctor. You can get a second opinion if you and the insurance company don’t agree. Also, you should contact a workers’ comp attorney at The Walthew Law Firm to discuss your options.
Are Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) Important?
If you sustained an injury, you will be referred to a physician that the insurance company approves. The recommended doctor will thoroughly examine you, diagnose your injury, and determine your ability to go back to work.
Depending on factors such as your recovery duration and the seriousness of your injury, repeated doctor’s visits may be necessary. This is meant to monitor your progress and ensure you are recovering from the injury as expected. If there are issues with your recovery, your doctor will adjust their opinion about your ability to work and whether you have restrictions.
But eventually, they will determine if you have reached a maximum medical improvement (MMI). This means that no further medical improvement is possible. Your treating doctor will determine if you are fully healed and can return to work without restrictions. Another determination is if you won’t recover from your work injury fully, but can return to work with restrictions. Also, the doctor will determine if you suffer a permanent disability and cannot return to work.
You will be assigned a disability rating, which determines the benefit amount you can get. If you sustained an injury and cannot work, such a process can be exhausting. Your attorney can walk you through each step of the process, so you know what to expect. Also, they can flag possible problems for you. 
When Disputes Arise
When it comes to workers’ compensation claims, disputes can arise. Parties may not agree on the initial diagnosis, limitations, and prognosis. Also, there may be disagreement about the required treatment, the extent of injuries, and the appropriate restrictions. Both parties may also disagree over previous or pre-existing injuries and disability ratings.
If disputes arise, either party can request an IME. The dispute can come from the injured employee or the insurer. An IME is meant to determine the accuracy of the doctor’s initial assessment. Keep in mind that the insurer will pick the doctor who will perform the IME.
