Have you ever been stuck in a constant loop of replacement panel requests, one after another, ultimately causing significant delay in the discovery process? Nowadays, the panel QME process is almost inevitable in the handling of every workers’ compensation claims to resolve any and all disputed medical issues, particularly in cases where the applicant is […]
Category Archives: QME
As explained by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), QMEs are licensed doctors who have been trained and certified by the state’s DWC. When there are questions regarding the nature and severity of an employee’s injury, a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) may be brought in to bring additional clarity and help resolve the issue. […]
With today’s online Panel Qualified Medical Evaluator request system, it is often a race to be the party to designate the panel specialty. All too often the fate of a case hinges on the click of a submittal button. Despite defendants’ best efforts, there are times where applicant’s counsel is able to secure the specialty […]
The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic is affecting communities across the country. In order to slow the transmission of the respiratory disease, the California Department of Public Health recommends social distancing. Public officials instructed everyone in the state to stay home except for essential needs. In an effort to facilitate social distancing, the Division of Workers’ Compensation […]
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By Nicole D. Rothford Panel disputes seem to be the new wave of litigation at the WCAB in the workers’ compensation arena, but a significant panel decision that is resulting in new issues for litigation, is not a new decision. In fact, the 2006 case of Nelly Romero v. Costco Wholesale, PSI, 72 CCC 824; 2007 Cal. Wrk. […]