[Petvet]

My adult daughter received a back injury at work in Eugene, Oregon and was transported by ambulance from there. It was initially treated as a back strain, but after physical therapy and a subsequent MRI, she found she had prolapsed a disc which is putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. She was referred to an orthopedic surgeon who recommended a lumbar discectomy on an outpatient basis. She is anxious to get the procedure done, so that she can be out of both chronic and acute episodes of pain and off medication, as well as, get back to her regular job. Her employer has modified her work load so that there is no lifting or prolonged sitting. But workman's comp has stated that they want her to get a second opinion in Portland, Oregon (a 2 hour drive) which is not scheduled until a month and a half away. Does she have to get a second opinion and can it be done by a surgeon of her choice?

[seniorjudge]

If she doesn't follow the work comp rules, she won't get work comp.

[Mr. Knowitall]

The terms may change, but this type of examination is called an IME (independent medical exam), and it is the insurance company's reality check against the treating doctor's recommendation. They get to pick their own IME doctor. If the distance is a problem perhaps she can convince the insurer to use a doctor closer to her home. She should be able to claim reimbursement for her medical mileage.

[Melly]

I was injured in Sept 05 at work, due to lack of response from claims adjusters I never got the carpal tunnel testing the Dr requested in Nov of 05.In Aug 06 I aggravated reinjured it they made me file it as a new claim. Last week surgery was approved but the next day it was denied. NOw they are sending me for an IME, but the reason my claims adjuster gave the Patient Care person where I have been going is to "Determine cause ability" like now they are looking at it as not being caused by the orginal injure. THey are sending me 209 miles from my home, when I asked why not closer the claims adjuster told me "In MN we can send you up to 200 miles from your home"
I get my information now from the Patient Care person as my claims adjuster is again not returning my calls since last week(same thing that happened in 05).
So is it time for me to consult with a lawyer?

Mary