Michigan workers comp lawyer discuses the independent medical evaluation and what goes into the doctors report.
Michigan law requires a person submit to an independent medical evaluation (IME) as part of any workers comp claim. This gives your employer and its insurance company a chance to have you examined by a doctor of their choosing.
The doctor who performs the IME will not provide any medical advice or treatment. No doctor/patient relationship will be established. A report will be prepared with an opinion regarding your medical condition and ability to work. This should be provided to you within fifteen days after completion.
Insurance companies use the same doctors over and over again because they know what to expect. Some of these physicians make a career out of testifying for insurance companies. These bogus medical opinions are used to dispute workers comp claims.
Topics found in an IME report
It is important to provide the examining doctor with an accurate history of injury. Here are some common topics found in the IME report.
Chief complaint Review of medical records (Including MRI reports/films)
Physical examination Employment history
Past medical history Conclusion (Diagnosis/Prognosis/Restrictions)
What to expect
Some evaluations take no more than 10-15 minutes. Do not exaggerate or fake symptoms as this can quickly be discovered during a physical examination.
We tell our clients to cooperate and not to be discouraged. A bad medical opinion can always be challenged in court.
Call (855) 221- 2667 to speak with a Michigan workers comp lawyer. The advice is free and we can help protect your legal rights.
– Alex Berman is the founder of the law firm. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 30 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain workers comp benefits and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related Information:
How insurance companies use IME doctors to abuse the workers comp system