- Mandatory IME: What Happens If You Miss an Independent Medical Exam? You’ve been scheduled for an Independent Medical Exam (IME) by the insurance company, and you’re wondering if you can just skip it. This video will provide a clear answer and explain the serious consequences of failing to attend a requested IME in Pennsylvania.
- The Short Answer: Yes, You Must Go: We’ll state clearly that you are required to attend a requested IME. While the doctor is chosen by the insurance company, the exam is a legitimate part of the workers’ compensation legal process.
- The Penalty for Not Attending: We’ll explain the serious consequences of not attending. If you fail to show up, the insurance company can file a legal petition with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to suspend your benefits. This is often a quick process, and it can leave you without any income.
- The Judge’s Decision: We’ll clarify that a Workers’ Compensation Judge will likely suspend your benefits until you attend the IME. Once you attend, the insurance company must reinstate your benefits, but you will not be paid for the time your benefits were suspended.
- How a Lawyer Can Help: We’ll emphasize the importance of having a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation lawyer on your side. An attorney can:
- Ensure the IME is properly requested and scheduled.
- Help you prepare for the exam.
- Challenge the IME doctor’s report if it is inaccurate or biased.
- Fight to get your benefits reinstated if they are suspended for a missed exam.
This video is for any injured worker in Pennsylvania who is thinking about skipping an IME. We’ll give you the information you need to make the right decision.