Independent medical exam

[1171]

the federal Employer's Liability Act controls injuries to railroad workers.
it is not "no fault" like most workers compensation;you are entitled to sue for damages.

there is no strict administrative processes involved. you can find out more here
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/...LE=45USCC2

i suggest you contact your union for more detailed information.

[Adk98]

Can they stop paying me without an IME decision? Or can they just stop anytime?

[1171]

(09-11-2011 09:58 AM)Adk98 Wrote:  Can they stop paying me without an IME decision? Or can they just stop anytime?

it depends on how you are being paid. it's not required that it be an insured benefit.
you should contact your union about the rules.

[Adk98]

I work for the railroad and it's an insurance company but I get papers from the dept of labor. I don't know if that helps.

[1171]

(09-11-2011 11:52 AM)Adk98 Wrote:  I work for the railroad and it's an insurance company but I get papers from the dept of labor. I don't know if that helps.

if the dept of Labor is administering then it's sounds like the differences are limited to the legal arena.

in that case they need medical evidence to support the termination of benefits. Any medical opinion can serve as evidence supporting a change in benefit status.

[Adk98]

So could a doctor who's never seen me but has MRI and x rays of me release me so they can stop paying?

[1171]

unlikely but yes.