Preparing For Your Independent Medical Exam
After initiating the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim, there’s a chance that you’ll be asked to undergo an independent medical exam, or IME. If there are any questions or disputes over the benefits you’re entitled to in your case, the insurance company handling your claim will request an IME. Because these types of exams can have an effect on the amount and type of benefits you’re eligible to receive, it’s important that you have an understanding of the general purpose of an IME and how you can best prepare for it.
Review Your Medical History
The IME doctor that is hired by your employer or your employer’s insurance company will have the medical records that pertain to your injury or condition, including any records of previous injuries to the same body part. The doctor will ask you a series of questions regarding your past and current medical condition, so it’s best to glance over your medical records. When speaking with the doctor, don’t hide any past injuries or devalue them.
Review How The Accident Happened
Throughout the process of filing your workers’ compensation claim, you’ll be asked to recall exactly how the accident happened. Even though workers’ compensation operates on a no-fault system, the doctor will want to make sure the accident is work-related. If there are any disparities in your story, medical experts will take a closer look at your claim. Your story should not stray from what you’ve told doctors in the past – if there are any changes, they can be used as evidence to show that you’re not telling the truth.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Treatment
You’ll be asked to explain what treatment you’ve received thus far for your injury. Take a moment and make a list ahead of time that outlines any and all tests, surgeries, and procedures you’ve undergone since the accident. Don’t worry about not knowing the exact date of a procedure or type of medication you’ve received – this isn’t to test your memory, the doctor just wants to have a general understanding of your treatment history.
The Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers at Cummings & Middlebrooks, LLP have more than 30 years in combined legal experience. When you retain the services of our firm, you can be confident that your success is our number one goal. Call (404) 250-3292 today to learn how we can help.
