Understanding Independent Medical Review:
Fighting for Medical Care
Independent Medical Review (IMR)—three words that have thrown a wrench into the works when it comes to receiving medical treatment for an on-the-job injury. Thanks to Senate Bill (SB) 863, the latest Workers' Compensation "reform," the IMR process puts the review for medical treatment into the hands of a private company hired by the state of California. And, the reviewer may not even be a physician. Add to this the strict timelines involved, and the injured worker can end up without the necessary medical treatment his or her doctor ordered.
With the substantial changes in the law brought about by SB 863, it is imperative now more than ever to consult with a skilled Workers' Compensation attorney, such as those at Gordon, Edelstein, Krepack, Grant, Felton & Goldstein, LLP, to protect your rights if you are injured on the job.