If you’ve filed a workers’ compensation claim in Michigan, there’s a good chance that you might be asked to attend an Independent Medical Examination (or an IME). Even though the name suggests otherwise, many injured workers are shocked to learn that the examination is usually arranged by the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company and not by a neutral third party.
Since the results of an IME can impact your medical treatment, wage-loss benefits, and overall claim, it’s important to understand what the examination involves and how to prepare for it the right way.
What is an Independent Medical Examination?
An Independent Medical Examination is an evaluation performed by a physician that’s selected by the workers’ compensation insurance carrier. The purpose of the examination is to assess the nature and the extent of your injury and how your treatment needs will be met so that you can return to work if possible.
The insurance company can request an IME when there are specific questions about:
- The severity of your injury
- Whether the injury is work-related
- The need for ongoing treatment
- Your work restrictions
- Whether benefits should continue
The doctor conducting the exam will typically review medical records, ask questions about your injury, and perform a physical examination.
Why the Insurance Company Requests an IME
Insurance companies usually use IMEs to obtain a second opinion regarding an injured worker’s condition. In some cases, the insurer might think that treatment has gone on longer than necessary or that the employee can return to work.
While the doctor that performs the examination is expected to provide an independent medical opinion, the results can significantly influence how the insurance company handles the claim.
Because of this, many workers view the IME as an important and a potentially challenging part of the workers’ compensation process.
Are You Required to Attend?
In most Michigan workers’ compensation cases, injured employees are generally required to attend a properly requested IME.
Failing to attend without a valid reason could jeopardize your benefits or create delays in the claims process. If you receive notice of examination, it’s important to take it seriously and understand your obligations before deciding how to respond.
If scheduling conflicts or other issues arise, addressing them promptly is usually the best approach.
What to Expect During the Examination
An IME isn’t the same as a typical doctor’s visit. The examining physician is evaluating your condition for purposes related to the workers’ compensation claim as opposed to providing ongoing medical care for you.
During the examination, the doctor can:
- Review your medical history
- Ask how the injury occurred
- Discuss symptoms and limitations
- Perform physical testing or evaluations
- Review diagnostic imaging and records
The length and scope of the examination can vary depending on the nature of the injury.
Be Honest and Consistent
One of the most important things to keep in mind during an IME is answer all questions honestly and consistently. Exaggerating your symptoms or minimizing your condition can create credibility issues that can impact your claim.
Having consistency between your medical records, prior statements, and the information provided during the IME can be very important.
The IME Report Can Impact Your Benefits
After the examination, the physician will prepare a report outlining their findings and opinions. The insurance company can use this report when deciding whether to continue wage-loss benefits, modify work restrictions, or challenge any aspects of your claim.
In some situations, the IME doctor’s conclusions can differ from those of your treating physician. These disagreements can become a central issue in the workers’ compensation case.
Why Legal Guidance Can Be Important
Independent Medical Exams can play a major role in the outcome of a Michigan workers’ compensation claim. Working with a firm like Duff Law can help injured workers understand what to expect and how to protect their rights throughout the process.