The Significance of a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) in a Workers’ Compensation Case

The Significance of a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) in a Workers’ Compensation Case

 

A work-related injury can be intimidating and disrupting to several aspects of your life. It can be mentally and physically draining, and you may end up losing your job. Fortunately, Florida law requires employers to provide compensation for employees who are injured in a work-related accident. Still, getting the compensation you deserve can be a challenge in itself. There are many factors to consider, but one crucial element of your workers’ compensation case is a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME). In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of a QME and why it’s important to your case.

 

1. What is a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME)?

A QME is a medical examination that is conducted by a physician who is authorized by the state workers' compensation agency. The exam’s goal is to determine the extent of your injuries, the cause, the treatment required, and the level of disability or impairment caused by your injuries. A QME is different from a traditional medical examination because it is intended to gather medical evidence, not to provide medical treatment.

2. Why Is a Qualified Medical Evaluation Important?

A QME is essential to your workers’ compensation case because it serves as a vital source of information and evidence to support your case. During your QME, the physician will evaluate the extent of your injury, and this evaluation will be used to determine the level of compensation you should receive. If you do not undergo a QME, insurance companies may use their own doctors to evaluate your injuries, and those doctors may not have your best interests at heart. A QME ensures that you receive an objective and comprehensive evaluation of your injuries to help you get the compensation you deserve. 

3. How to Obtain a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME)?

Once you file your workers' compensation claim, the insurance company will provide you with the names of three qualified medical evaluators. You’ll need to choose one of these doctors for your examination. While it may be convenient to choose the first doctor on the list, it’s important to do your research and choose a physician who has experience working on workers' compensation cases. If your injury requires specialized treatment, you should choose a physician who specializes in that area of medicine.

4. What to Expect During a Qualified Medical Evaluation?

A Qualified Medical Evaluation is a detailed medical examination that is conducted by a qualified physician. The doctor will ask about your medical history, the circumstances surrounding your injury, and your current symptoms. The evaluation will typically include a physical examination, medical testing, and a review of your medical records. The results of your QME will be prepared in a written report and submitted to the state workers' compensation agency.

 

Conclusion

A Qualified Medical Evaluation is essential to your workers’ compensation case. It is a crucial piece of evidence that can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to under Florida law. If you have been injured on the job, it’s vital to speak with an experienced workers' compensation attorney, who can guide you through the process and help you receive the justice you deserve. At ARL Attorney, we have the expertise to help you with your workers' compensation case in Orlando, FL. Contact us today to arrange a legal consultation.

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