Suffering a work-related injury in California can be overwhelming, especially when disputes arise regarding the extent of your injury or disability. As a dedicated workers’ compensation
lawyer at West Coast Workers Comp Attorney, I, Brittany Huynh, am committed to helping injured workers navigate the complexities of the workers’ compensation system. In this blog, I will explore the significance of a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) in California
workers’ compensation cases, along with an example of how a QME can impact a worker’s case.
What is a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME)?
A Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) is a crucial element of the workers’ compensation process in California. It involves an impartial and independent medical evaluation conducted by
a physician certified by the state. The primary purpose of a QME is to assess an injured worker’s medical condition, the extent of their disability, and any work-related limitations they may have.
When is a QME Required?
In workers’ compensation cases, disagreements between the injured worker, their treating physician, and the insurance company regarding the extent of the injury or disability can arise.
When such disputes occur, a QME evaluation is necessary to provide an objective assessment of the worker’s condition.
What is the QME Process?
- Requesting a QME: If a dispute arises, either party can request a QME evaluation through the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC).
- QME Panel: The DWC provides a list of three QMEs from different medical specialties. Each party has the opportunity to strike one name from the list, leaving one physician to conduct the evaluation.
- Evaluation Appointment: The QME schedules an appointment with the injured worker to assess their medical condition and review relevant medical records.
- QME Report: Following the evaluation, the QME prepares a detailed report with medical findings, diagnosis, and opinions on the injured worker’s disability and work restrictions.
- Dispute Resolution: The QME’s report plays a significant role in resolving disagreements between the parties concerning the injured worker’s condition and appropriate benefits.
A Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) is a critical step in resolving disputes over an injured worker’s medical condition and disability in California workers’ compensation cases. At
WCWCA we understand the significance of a QME in securing the best possible outcome for our clients. If you face a workers’ compensation dispute, seeking a Qualified Medical Evaluation could be vital in protecting your rights and securing the benefits you
deserve. Seeking the right kind of Qualified Medical Evaluator makes or breaks the benefits you deserve.
At the law offices of West Coast Workers Comp Attorney, we concentrate our legal practice in the area of workers’ compensation law in California, and we have more than 15 years of experience in this field. You can call us at 415-218-5634at any time for a free consultation.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
