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Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)

October 30, 2018

By Shelley W. Elovitz, Esq.

Attending IMEs is mandatory under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation law

Under the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation laws, your employer, through its insurance carrier or vocational rehabilitation company, has the right to have you periodically examined by the doctor of their choice.  This is called an independent medical examination, also known as an IME. Independent Medical Exams are used to try and gain a medical opinion that may modify or end your workers’ compensation claim.

You must attend this examination!  Your employer can file a petition to compel your attendance at an IME. If you do not attend the IME, your workers’ compensation benefits and medical payments may be stopped.

Your employer will pay for this examination. Neither the insurance carrier nor the vocational rehabilitation company should be with you during the IME.  You have the right to be examined in private by the doctor and his/her nurse. You also have the right to bring another person, such as a spouse, with you.

You should be honest about your injuries. Do not play up nor downplay your injury. Mention all injuries and be sure to list all of your symptoms, treatments, and medications. You may want to write a list beforehand so you don’t forget anything. After you leave the doctor’s office, you should make a written note of what the doctor did and said to you and how long the actual examination took and share that information with your attorney.

Our office helps people from Western Pennsylvania who need assistance with their Workers’ Compensation Claim. Email us or call (412) 338-1177.

 

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