The Division Independent Medical Examination, or DIME, process happens after an injured worker is deemed at maximum medical improvement, or MMI, and released from care. An impairment rating is given by the authorized workers compensation physician to determine the outcome of your care. The Colorado Workers Compensation rules allow you the right to contest the decision made by this physician by going through the DIME process.
During the DIME process, a separate independent doctor will review your records, perform an examination and give his or her opinion. This process allows you the option of second opinion, and may be the only option for seeking additional treatment after being released from your physician’s care and determines if you were assigned the correct impairment. When you consider the fact that the impairment you were given will determine the amount you receive in workers compensation, this second opinion can have a lifetime impact.
Having a Colorado workers compensation attorney during the DIME process is a must. If you and the insurer cannot agree on a doctor, the Division of Workers Compensation will randomly choose a panel of three doctors. You will have the ability to strike one name off the list, and the insurance carrier will also strike one name off the list. The remaining name is the physician that will perform the DIME exam.
The problem with this is that insurance providers typically know which doctors will side with the worker, and which will side with the insurance company. The insurance company will strike the name from the list that will most benefit you. Having an attorney that specializes in workers compensation may be the difference between choosing a fair doctor, or unknowingly selecting one that will be detrimental to your case.
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