Legal Question in Workers Comp in Pennsylvania

No. If you are more than 90 days past the date of your injury, you can go to any doctor you want. If you're still within the 90 days, it can get confusing. Feel free to call and discuss.

Richard Senker 1 866 AUTOCRASH (toll free)

I assume from your question that you have suffered a work injury and have been referred to a "panel" physician. I also assume that the employer or its insurance company has now asked you to attend an "independent medical examination (IME)" with another physician. Your employer and its insurance company have the right to ask you to do this periodically. (The general rule of thumb is every 6 months.)

The panel physician is considered your treating doctor. If you have been treating with that doctor for more than 90 days, you are free to see whoever you would like. You can certainly choose to stay with the panel doctor if you like the doctor's care.

Make no mistake, the IME is not "independent." The insurance company is hoping to obtain an opinion about your condition that will help them limit or eliminate your claim. The action of scheduling an IME is often the action that causes my clients to come see me.

If you would lke to consult with me further and live in southeastern Pennsylvania, please feel free to contact me. Consultations are free and fees can only be charged when they have been approved by a judge. If you would rather keep your own counsel at this time, feel free to ask my staff to send you our "Frequently Asked Questions About IMEs." That document will provide you with many tips about how to prepare for and attend your IME. Good luck.