The Role of Independent Medical Examinations in Georgia Workers’ Comp Cases
When a dispute arises related to the type or severity of injuries sustained by an employee, the employer or workers’ comp insurance provider may request an independent medication examination (IME). The worker may also request an IME in their case. Our Atlanta & Savannah workers’ compensation attorneys explain the role of IMEs and how independent medical examinations can impact your Atlanta & Savannah workers’ compensation case.
What Is an Independent Medical Examination?
O.C.G.A. §34-9-202 An IME is conducted by a physician who has not been involved in your work-related injury case. The exam is intended to be a neutral evaluation of your injuries and impairments. An IME is conducted to obtain an unbiased and accurate assessment before proceeding with a claim or to assess permanent impairments.
The objective of an IME is to resolve medical disputes between the workers’ compensation provider and the employee. Issues that an independent medical examination may address include, but are not limited to:
- The type of injuries sustained by the work
- The severity of impairments or disability
- The probable cause of an employee’s injury
- Whether an employee can perform their work duties or any tasks
- Confirm the procedures and treatments are necessary
- When a worker may be able to return to work
- Whether additional medical treatment or procedures may be effective
When the workers’ compensation insurance company requests an IME, the employee receives notice of the examination. They must attend or they could lose their workers’ comp benefits. The workers’ compensation provider chooses the doctor to perform the IME.
An employee may request an IME if they have received income benefits within the past 12 days. The employee may choose a doctor near them to perform the IME. The insurance company or employer must cover the cost with some limitations.
What Happens After an Independent Medical Examination in Atlanta & Savannah, GA?
The medical examiner issues a report with their findings. The IME report may confirm the findings of the treating physician. If so, the employee may continue to receive workers’ compensation benefits.
However, the IME report may contradict the findings of the treating physician. If so, the workers’ comp insurance company may deny the claim or terminate benefits. If you disagree with the findings of the IME, your attorney can appeal the results.
Do I Need an Attorney for an IME in a Georgia Workers’ Compensation Case?
You are not required to hire an attorney if you are notified of an independent medical examination. However, IMEs may not always be neutral and unbiased. The doctors are chosen and paid for by the insurance company. Therefore, the insurance company chooses doctors with a reputation of being favorable to employers.
An experienced workers’ comp lawyer prepares you for what to expect at the IME, including do’s and don’ts of independent medical examinations. Your attorney also helps you arrange an IME with a doctor of your choosing and prepare an appeal, if necessary.
Contact Parsons Law Group for More Information About Atlanta & Savannah Workers’ Compensation Claims
If you were injured on the job, you need all the benefits and compensation allowed by law. Call Parsons Law Group to discuss your legal options and rights with an experienced Atlanta & Savannah workers’ compensation attorney. Schedule your free consultation today.
