The examination is obtained by the employer or carrier to assess compensability, maximum medical improvement, impairment rating, and work restrictions. Frequency limits and notice requirements are statutory.
Refusal to attend may suspend benefits.
Alternative Names:
Comp IME|Employer Medical Examination
Why it Matters?
Impairment rating disputes drive permanent disability exposure, and the examination provides the rating that competes with the treating provider's, using the applicable AMA Guides edition which varies by state. Using the wrong edition invalidates the rating entirely. Frequency limits also constrain repeat examinations, which makes timing the examination at maximum medical improvement rather than earlier the effective approach.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Why does the AMA Guides edition matter?
When should the examination occur?
