After you file for workers' compensation benefits, it is possible that your employer's insurance company will request an independent medical evaluation of your condition. The examination is often used to determine eligibility for benefits. If you have received notice that you have to undergo an examination, here is what you need to know.
What Is the Independent Medical Examination?
The independent medical examination is the insurance company's way of ensuring that you are as hurt as you are claiming. It is also used to determine if it is possible that your injuries occurred somewhere else than the workplace.
The examination is conducted by a doctor who is selected by the insurance company. Ideally, the doctor is unbiased and will give an honest report of your condition.
What Can You Expect?
Before the examination, the doctor will review the medical records provided by the insurance company. The insurance company might request answers to specific questions regarding your condition and the medical treatment you have received.
It is important for you to remember that the doctor is not bound by the same standards as your own doctor. Anything that you tell the doctor can be noted in the examination report and shared with the insurance company.
The doctor will ask questions about your accident at work, the injuries, and the medical care that you have received. He or she will also ask about how your injuries have impacted your ability to work. Be honest in your answers and do not exaggerate. Remember, the insurance company will carefully review the report from the doctor and look for discrepancies in what you tell the doctor and previous statements you have made.
What If You Disagree With the Results?
It is possible that the doctor will submit a negative report regarding your injuries that can result in a denial of your benefits. If this happens, you have a couple options for dealing with it.
One possible way to overcome a bad report is to request a new examination with a doctor of your choice. If the insurance company is unwilling, you can make the request to the state's labor board.
Another possible solution is to dispute what was said in the report. Obtain a copy of the doctor's report and write a detailed letter explaining what was wrong. Provide the letter to both the insurance company and the labor board.
Depending on your state's laws, there might be other ways that you can overcome a negative medical examination report. Work with an attorney like Franco Law Firm to identify those methods and put them into action.
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