Just about every injured Ohioan has, had or will have a horrid experience with an Independent Medical Examiner. Whether the IME doctor is hired by the Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC), Industrial Commission (IC), self-insured employer or employer there is a reason they chose particular doctors. These doctors have made a fortune from preforming exams for the highest bidder.
Many of these doctors lack the specialty and experience required to perform the examinations. Many have not practiced medicine for several years, if at ever. They often schedule their exams at other medical or chiropractic offices as they do not have an office of their own. Beware if you show up for your exam and there is a handwritten sign taped up at the entrance of the office.
This does not apply to all IME doctors. There are plenty of impartial, credible IME docs that can be trusted, but they’re often difficult to pick out among the loads of partial examiners.
When you attend your IME, realize that these doctors are not your friend and they are not there to help you. They are being hired and paid by someone (the BWC, the IC or your employer) who does not want you to receive the medical treatment or compensation you have requested. Be honest with the IME doc, but realize that they likely will not be honest with you.
Many of these doctors lack the specialty and experience required to perform the examinations. Many have not practiced medicine for several years, if at ever. They often schedule their exams at other medical or chiropractic offices as they do not have an office of their own. Beware if you show up for your exam and there is a handwritten sign taped up at the entrance of the office.
This does not apply to all IME doctors. There are plenty of impartial, credible IME docs that can be trusted, but they’re often difficult to pick out among the loads of partial examiners.
When you attend your IME, realize that these doctors are not your friend and they are not there to help you. They are being hired and paid by someone (the BWC, the IC or your employer) who does not want you to receive the medical treatment or compensation you have requested. Be honest with the IME doc, but realize that they likely will not be honest with you.