Compensation Cases
If you’ve been injured at work in Minnesota and are seeking workers’ compensation benefits, you may be asked to undergo an Independent Medical Examination (IME). Despite the term “independent,” an IME is often arranged by your employer’s insurance company, meaning it may not be as impartial as it sounds. This exam plays a crucial role in your workers’ compensation claim, so it’s essential to understand what it involves and how it can impact your case.
What is an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?
An IME is a medical evaluation performed by a doctor chosen by the insurance company. The physician typically has no prior relationship with you and is not responsible for treating your injuries. The insurance company requests an IME to assess the extent of your injury.
While the term “independent” might suggest neutrality, the exam is often conducted with the insurer’s interest in mind. In other words, they use this report to determine whether your benefits should continue.
Why Are Independent Medical Examinations Requested?
Insurance companies typically request an IME for several reasons:
- To assess the nature and extent of your injury: They may want to confirm the injury is work-related.
- To evaluate your medical treatment: The insurer may question whether the treatment you’re receiving is reasonable and necessary.
- To determine whether you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI): The insurance company may believe that no further recovery is possible.
- To assess your ability to return to work: They may want to know if you can return to your job or if you have any work restrictions.
- To evaluate permanent disability: The IME can help determine whether your injury has caused a lasting disability that impacts your work capacity.
Do You Have to Attend an IME?
In Minnesota, you are generally required to attend an IME if the insurance company requests it. Failing to attend without a valid reason can result in the suspension of your workers’ compensation benefits. However, there are rules that protect you from excessive or unreasonable IME requests. For instance, the exam should be scheduled at a reasonable time and location, and you shouldn’t be required to attend multiple IMEs within a short timeframe unless absolutely necessary.
What Should You Expect at an IME?
Prior to the IME, the physician will review your medical records provided by the insurance company. During the IME, the physician will ask questions about your injury and perform a physical examination.
Can You Challenge an IME Report?
Since the IME is arranged by the insurer, the report may not always be favorable to your claim. If you feel the findings are inaccurate or biased, you can challenge the report. You have the right to provide additional medical evidence from your treating physician or seek a second opinion to contest the IME’s conclusions. Working with a skilled workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate this process and ensure your rights are protected.
Your Rights During the IME Process
As an injured worker in Minnesota, you have several important rights during the IME process:
- The insurer must cover reasonable travel costs, such as mileage or public transportation fees, related to attending the IME.
- You can request a copy of the doctor’s report after the exam.
- If the IME findings negatively affect your claim, you can dispute the conclusions with the help of an attorney.
