In Pennsylvania, Seven DO NOTS When Attending an IME

Independent Medical Examinations are frequent in workers compensation cases in Pennsylvania.  Just a few quick words about an IME.  First, they are not ‘independent’ exams.  These are exams scheduled by the workers’ compensation insurance carrier, with a doctor they choose, and scheduled most often for very specific reasons.  Those reasons may include attempt to get a full recovery opinion, to deny medical treatment, or to return the injured worker back to work.  You can read more about IMEs right here.…

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In Pennsylvania, Workers Comp litigation can continue past decision

One thing that is important to know about Pennsylvania Workers Comp, is that your initial litigation may not be the end of the insurance companies attempt to deny or stop your benefits.  Let's use a real client example. I have a client from Shippensburg who was injured on the job when he fell in a hole, struck his back, and injured his low back.  He came to me after being off work and receiving no wage loss benefits, meanwhile medical…

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7 Reasons why Injured Workers seek Legal Counsel

You get injured at work.   As you seek medical treatment, deal with this form and that form, and your pain, your future, your financial well being, and your job all swirl around in your mind, you likely think --- should I contact a workers' compensation attorney? The clear answer is --- YES.  A workers' compensation claim can very complex, both in terms of anticipated wage loss and getting medical bills paid.   You are likely asked to sign tons of…

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Must I attend an IME Exam in Pennsylvania?

The questions I get from clients and potential clients are --- what is an Independent Medical Examination, otherwise known as an IME, and must I attend the examination? First, what is an IME examination?  In workers compensation litigation, both the Claimant and the Employer are provided an opportunity to litigate, or "put on", their case.  Many cases revolve around medical issues, such as, whether there is a casual relationship between the injury and what you testified to about how you…

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What is an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?

Often I get questions from injured workers asking if they have to attend an independent medical examination, otherwise known as an IME.  The quick answer to that questions is --- Yes.  The workers compensation insurance carrier is entitled to have an injured worker examined by a doctor of their choosing every six months.   Insurance carriers typically like to refer to these examinations as 'independent', hence the name of the examination, however, they are far from independent.   Let's take…

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