Independent Medical Exams

Independent medical exams are a common component of workers’ compensation claims. They assess your work-related illness or injury to determine which benefits you’re entitled to. At Monument Occupational Medicine in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Susan Cump, PA, Anjmun Sharma, MD, and their team provide independent medical exams to adults. Call Monument Occupational Medicine today to schedule an independent medical exam, or book your appointment online.

What is an independent medical exam?

An independent medical exam is a checkup used to resolve questions about a workplace injury or illness. It’s conducted by a doctor or physician’s assistant to determine which treatment you need, how much you’ll receive in workers’ compensation benefits, and if you have a permanent disability.

Why would I need an independent medical exam?

You’d schedule an independent medical exam if your employer’s insurance provider disagrees with the diagnosis following a workplace illness or injury. That’s particularly true if your doctor recommends surgery or another costly medical procedure.

An independent medical exam is completed by a neutral third party. Their recommendations play a significant role in determining the treatment you receive and your workers’ compensation benefits.

What do independent medical exams involve?

The Monument Occupational Medicine team tailors an independent medical exam to your needs. First, they review your medical records and documentation that your employer or insurance company requires.

Next, they ask several questions, including how the injury happened, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and what your treatment has involved so far. Answer their questions honestly and as thoroughly as possible. Your responses are essential to determining the best course of treatment, so don’t hold anything back.

After gathering the necessary information, your Monument Occupational Medicine provider completes a physical exam. They:

• Listen to your heart and respiratory rate
• Examine your eyes, ears, nose, and throat
• Palpate your abdomen to assess your organs’ size and position
• Test your reflexes and muscle strength
• Assess your hearing and vision
• Order lab tests, including bloodwork and urinalysis

If your injury or illness restricts your ability to perform work-related tasks, they might also complete specialized testing. For example, if you work around harmful respiratory substances, they might order respiratory/pulmonary function testing to assess the health of your lungs and respiratory system.

At the end of the exam, your Monument Occupational Medicine provider writes a report documenting their conclusions and opinions. Much of the report focuses on disputed issues or questions raised by your employer’s insurance company. You and your lawyer receive a copy of the report that can be used to determine your next steps.

Since the report significantly affects your workers’ compensation claim, you must take it seriously.

Call Monument Occupational Medicine today to schedule an independent medical exam, or book your appointment online.