Brief Overview:To initiate an Independent Medical Examination (IME) in Calgary, an employer must follow a specific process. This involves contacting a reputable IME provider and providing relevant information about the employee’s case. The IME provider will then schedule an appointment with a qualified medical professional to assess the employee’s condition.
Answer:
1. Contact an IME Provider: Start by finding and reaching out to a trusted IME provider in Calgary.
2. Provide Relevant Information: Prepare comprehensive documentation related to the employee’s case, including medical records, incident reports, and any other pertinent details.
3. Schedule the Examination: Work with the chosen IME provider to set up an appointment for the independent medical examination.
4. Notify Employee of the Assessment: Inform the employee about their scheduled IME and provide them with relevant details such as location, time, and instructions regarding preparation or necessary documents.
5. Follow-up Actions: After completion of the IME, employers should discuss next steps with their legal counsel or disability management team based on assessment outcomes.
FAQs:
1. Are employers required to conduct an IME?
In certain situations where there is uncertainty surrounding employees’ medical conditions or fitness for work, it may be prudent for employers to initiate an IME; however, it ultimately depends on various factors such as regulatory requirements and company policies.
2. Can employees refuse to attend an IME?
While employees generally have rights when it comes to medical assessments like privacy provisions under applicable laws or collective bargaining agreements if they exist – refusal without valid reasons can result in employment consequences such as potential delay of benefits or even termination in some cases.
3. Who pays for the cost of conducting an IME?
Usually arranged by employers/insurers/legal representatives seeking objective evidence rather than solely relying upon documentation provided by claimants â they are primarily responsible for covering all costs associated with arranging and conducting these examinations.
4. How long does it take to receive IME results?
The time frame for receiving IME results can vary based on multiple factors, including the complexity of the case, availability of medical professionals, and the report writing process. Generally, it may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
5. Can employees have their own representative present during an IME?
Employees generally have the right to be accompanied by a representative (such as legal counsel or union representation) during an IME; however, this may depend on jurisdictional regulations and any relevant agreements or policies in place.
6. What happens if there is a disagreement between the employee’s treating physician and the IME professional?
In cases where there is conflicting information from different medical sources, employers/insurers/legal representatives are often encouraged to seek further expert opinions for more clarity before making any final decisions about benefits or reinstatement offers.
7. How can employers ensure that they choose reputable IME providers?
Employers should consider selecting well-established IME providers with specialized expertise in conducting independent assessments within their specific industry or sector. Conducting research on provider reputation and seeking recommendations from trusted sources can also help in making informed choices.
BOTTOM LINE:
To initiate an Independent Medical Examination (IME) in Calgary as an employer, it is crucial to contact a reputable IME provider and provide comprehensive documentation related to the employee’s case. Following established processes ensures fairness and objectivity while obtaining impartial medical assessment necessary for decision-making regarding claims management or return-to-work determinations.