Getting hurt at work can be disruptive, but in most cases you are covered by your employer's insurance plan. This plan, known as workers' compensation, gives workers the opportunity to heal without having to worry about medical bills piling up. The best case scenario for injuries is a quick recovery so that you can return to work and get back to earning your full salary. Unfortunately, some injuries do not heal as quickly as you might like. When this happens, you may be asked to participate in a special exam. Read on for more information about the independent medical exam (IME).

How Long Does an Injury Take to Heal?

You may think it's not possible to say for sure, and you'd be correct, but that does not stop the workers' comp carrier from making some guesses. These are educated guesses based on past injuries that are similar to your own, but naturally every injury is as unique as the person who has it. The insurance company has a good idea of when you can return to your work after your injury, and when you fail to do so they may ask you to be examined to learn more about your injury and the status of your healing.

Facts to Know About the IME

1. This exam, and its result, can affect your workers' comp benefits. If the doctor determines that you should be able to go back to work, you have to do so or you may lose your job, so take this event seriously.

2. You won't be seeing your regular doctor for the IME, but instead a doctor who works for the insurance agency.

3. This doctor will take a look at the affected body parts, manipulate them and may run some diagnostic tests. You will be questioned about the accident and all treatments you have underwent so far. It must be noted that you will not be receiving treatment from this exam, nor any medication prescriptions; it's only an exam.

4. This doctor will be communicating the results of this exam directly with the insurance carrier; there is no confidentiality involved. Make no mistake, this doctor is paid by the workers' comp insurance agency.

Preparing for the Exam

1. You can be ready to answer any questions about your injury more confidently by reviewing your paperwork and medical records to refresh yourself.

2. Be aware that you will likely be under surveillance every moment, form the time you leave your vehicle until you return it. In other words, don't bother to limp into the exam room if you walked quickly from your car. It can be embarrassing to walk with a limp, but now is not the time to hide your injury.

3. If you are having trouble with your benefits, speak to a workers' compemsation attorney right away.