What is an EME?

What is an IME?

Like an EME, an IME (or independent medical examination) is a medical exam that takes place during the claims process. When a worker in Mississippi is injured on the job, one of the first things they’ll do is seek medical attention. If the injury is not severe enough to lead to immediate hospitalization, the worker must report their injury to their employer right away. Often, during the workers’ comp approval process, the employer will order a medical evaluation from a physician chosen by the employer’s insurance company, this is called an employer’s medical evaluation (EME). If that doctor’s findings contradict the opinion of your own doctor, the workers’ compensation judge may order a third, independent medical examination (IME) to break the tie. This doctor will be chosen by the judge, or it could be someone mutually agreed upon between the worker and the insurance company. Since an IME plays a crucial role in determining whether an injured worker receives compensation, it’s pivotal to speak with a seasoned workers’ compensation attorney before the IME who can break down their legal rights.

What Should I Tell the Doctor?

It’s important to disclose any injuries suffered before a workplace injury. If the worker doesn’t mention a previous injury because they are afraid it will affect their workers’ comp claim, the IME doctor will likely use that against them and write in their report that the worker wasn’t honest about their previous medical history. These doctors are known for writing in their reports that patients exaggerated their injuries. The best advice is to tell it like it is. If something in the exam hurts, tell them. If it doesn’t, tell them.

Should I Speak to a Lawyer Before My IME or EME?