What Does IME Mean in Workers’ Comp? (Independent Medical Examination)
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What IME mean in workers’ comp? (Independent Medical Examination)
In the realm of workers’ compensation law, IME refers to an independent medical examination. IMEs are performed by “neutral” doctors. However, the insurance company is able to select the doctor, so there is some concern about whether the physician is truly neutral. However, despite these concerns, if you are requested to attend an IME, you must do so if you want to receive benefits.
Most often, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company will request an injured worker attend an IME if the insurer disagrees with the treating physician’s recommendation or decision. For example, if your doctor orders an expensive diagnostic test or surgery, the insurance company may request an IME to get a second opinion.
During an IME, the doctor will ask you questions about the accident and your injuries. You are required to respond to these questions honestly. However, it is also important to remember that anything you tell the doctor can affect your claim. That being the case, it is important to be prepared for an IME.
First, ask to review the letter the doctor received from the insurance company to determine if everything the doctor was told about your medical history and condition is accurate. You don’t want the doctor acting on inaccurate information when conducting the IME.
Second, review your own medical history before the IME. The IME physician will ask you questions about any pre-existing conditions and how your work-related accident exacerbated those injuries. You should be prepared to answer these questions directly.
Third, be consistent when discussing your condition with the doctor. The physician conducting the IME will ask questions about your injuries, how they occurred, and what treatment you have undergone. Be sure to maintain a consistent narrative. Any inconsistencies can be taken out of context to make it seem as though you are exaggerating.
Workers’ compensation laws are complex, and the thought of preparing a claim and dealing with the insurance company can be overwhelming. At the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm, we help injured workers understand their rights and effectively pursue their options. When you contact our New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers, we will handle everything, so you can focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track. Give us a call at 973-920-7900 or connect with us through our online form.
Other Workers’ Compensation FAQs:
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- What Does AWW Mean Under Workers’ Comp? (Average Weekly Wage)
- What Does FCE Mean Under Workers’ Comp? (Functional Capacity Evaluation)
- What Does IME Mean in Workers’ Comp? (Independent Medical Examination)
- What Does MMI Mean in Workers’ Comp? (Maximum Medical Improvement)
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- What to Expect in Your Free Consultation with a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
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- When Do I Need A New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
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- While I Was Out of Work as a Result of a Work-Related Injury My Employer Terminated Me. Is This Legal?
- Why Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
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