QME Reports need not be hard.
As a QME, it is your job to write a comprehensive QME report that will benefit injured workers. Here are some helpful tips on how to write a successful one.
Tip 1: Listen carefully
The first thing you need to do when talking to an injured worker is to listen carefully to what they have to say.
If this is the first time that you are meeting with a worker, chances are he/she will give you information or background regarding the injury.
Tip 2: Take down notes
While listening to the worker, it is also important that you take down notes to determine some of the most important parts of the story.
This will include not only the injury itself, but also all the information about the other parts of the body that may be in pain due to the accident.
Better yet, use a recorder so you can review the conversation at a later time so you can get a better perspective.
Tip 3: Ask important questions
As a QME, it your job to ask the worker important questions. Before becoming a QME, you were most likely taught on how to write a Qualified Medical Evaluation. Whatever you’ve learned from writing this evaluation should be applied during your interview.
Remember to always ask specific questions about the worker’s injury, as well as the pain he or she could be experiencing at the moment.
Tip 4: Explain things thoroughly
Bear in mind that workers hire QMEs because they need a professional to help them with their case. With this, always explain certain terms to the workers. Be open minded when talking to them regardless if you have to repeat some concepts again and again.
Tip 5: Talk about benefits and coverage
Other than the basic information about the injury, the workers also want to know their coverage and benefits. Make sure to come prepared, and to discuss the California Workers Compensation system to them. Remember, do so with accuracy.
Tip 5: Talk about workers’ rights
After talking about their benefits and coverage, it is also a must that you remind them about their rights.
A lot of injured workers don’t even consider working with QMEs because they think that they only side with the companies or even the hospitals.
Prove them wrong by reminding the worker that their safety is the most important thing for you.
Tip 6: Answer questions
Don’t shy away from answering the worker’s questions. Come prepared so that the worker will know that you are knowledgeable about everything related to workers’ injuries.
Tip 7: Do a brief recap
Before ending your session with the worker, it’s necessary to do a brief recap of everything you’ve discussed.
Once you’ve taken these tips into consideration, chances are you can already come up with the most comprehensive report to date. If you still find yourself getting overwhelmed, you can ask help from Medical Office Management experts like TukkoMed.
Contact TukkoMed today and find out how we can make your medical practice easier and more productive