QME panel or QME report
Got a QME panel or a QME report?
We represent injured workers, never employers or insurers. A small office on Pacific Street, led by Dorothy R. Grant. When you call, you reach the people who work your case.
If your panel of three doctors just arrived
You have a short window to pick one doctor and book the exam. The panel letter states your deadline. If you miss it, the insurance company may pick for you.
What to do right now:
- Write down the date you received the panel.
- Look at the specialty and where each doctor's office is.
- Call us before you pick. We'll talk through your choices with you for free.
- Once you pick, tell the adjuster which doctor and when the exam is.
Before the exam
- Make sure the adjuster has sent the QME all of your medical records.
- Bring notes on your job duties and on how the injury affects your daily life: sleep, chores, driving, lifting, sitting, standing.
- Be honest and complete about past injuries. A prior injury doesn't defeat your claim.
- Mileage to and from the exam is reimbursed.
- If the paperwork has mistakes in it, they can be corrected, and the exam can be rescheduled if needed.
If you got the QME report
The report usually arrives about 30 days after the exam. Before you do anything else with it, send it to us. We'll read it and tell you whether it holds up:
- Did the doctor review all of your records?
- Did the doctor answer the right questions?
- Is the permanent disability rating calculated the way the rules require?
If something is wrong, there are ways to ask for it to be fixed, so call us soon after it arrives.
Before you accept a settlement or sign anything
After a QME report, the insurance company may start paying permanent disability or send you a settlement offer. Hold off on accepting until you've talked with an attorney. A lump-sum settlement, called a Compromise and Release (C&R), closes all issues related to your workers' compensation claim, including future medical care. It often comes with an agreement to resign from your job. That can be the right choice, but it's one you can't undo.
"I knew I had a very complex claim that would require professional help. ... During the course of a nearly 2 year process, I learned that there was no possible way I could have navigated it alone. I am grateful for their understanding, professionalism, compassion, and knowledge that eventually led to a healthy settlement."
This testimonial or endorsement does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.
Talk with us about your QME.
A real person in our office reads every inquiry and responds within two business days.
Have a deadline in the next few days? Say so in your message, and we'll look at yours first. You can also call us Monday through Thursday, 9 to noon or 2 to 4.
Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. Closed Fridays.