An employer’s medical examination (EME) is a medical exam requested by an employer. Any time a worker suffers an injury on the job, they’ll have to undergo a medical examination. If the workers’ doctor’s opinion is that the injury was suffered on the job and won’t allow them to work at full capacity, the worker can file for workers’ compensation. That said, the employer has the right to request a second opinion. This second opinion is called an employer’s medical examination or EME. That doctor will be chosen by the employer’s insurance company and likely ask the worker questions and perform a physical examination. This medical exam is not for treatment purposes, which means there is no doctor-patient relationship. Once the doctor finishes their evaluation, he or she will look at the worker’s medical history and then write a detailed report that includes their opinions on the worker’s ability to work. This doctor tends to be less favorable to the worker since they are paid by the insurance company. This is why workers deserve to have a workers’ comp lawyer by their side who can handle the insurance companies and ensure the worker isn’t being taken advantage of.

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?

If an injured worker has an IME or EME coming up, they should absolutely consult with a trusted workers’ comp lawyer. These exams are often scheduled by the insurance company with the goal being to deny medical treatment or benefits. A good workers’ comp lawyer will listen to the victim and learn more about their situation, then provide advice that is specific to the case. Call Rundlett Law Firm, PLLC today at 601-353-8504 and let a top Mississippi law firm ensure your benefits are approved.