Submitting my article idea to the admins here, as per the direction from the SafetyCulture chat support team.

Insurers Exploit IMEs to Unfairly Terminate Injured Workers’ Benefits

Insurance companies are increasingly using Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) as a tool to reduce or terminate injured workers’ benefits prematurely. While IMEs are intended to provide an unbiased medical evaluation, insurers often manipulate the process by selecting doctors known for producing reports that favor employers and insurance companies. This practice can leave injured workers without critical benefits they need to recover and support themselves.

Pond Lehocky, a workers compensation law firm in Pennsylvania, mentions how the IME process is problematic because it lacks true independence. Insurers have financial incentives to minimize claim payouts and may choose physicians with histories of issuing conservative medical opinions. These exams are often rushed, with limited review of the injured worker’s medical history. As a result, even workers with serious injuries can be deemed fit to return to work prematurely, risking further harm.

To combat this issue, injured workers should be aware of their legal rights and seek representation when faced with an unfavorable IME result. A skilled attorney can challenge biased reports, ensuring that workers receive the compensation and medical care they deserve. Workers should also document every aspect of their medical treatment and maintain open communication with their legal representatives.