Referral for an independent medical examination is only appropriate when information from the treating medical practitioner(s) is inadequate, unavailable or inconsistent and where the referrer has been unable to resolve the issues related to the decision directly with the treating practitioners. 

Referrals for an independent medical examination are made in accordance with the questions listed in “reasons for referral” (as per the Independent Medical Examination Guidelines) and if the answers cannot be obtained from the treating medical practitioner(s).

All referrals for independent medical examinations are to be arranged at reasonable times and dates and with adequate notice provided to the worker.

A worker is to be advised in writing at least 10 working days before the appointment, unless a shorter time is required because of exceptional and unavoidable circumstances and agreed to by the parties, eg need to consider an urgent request for treatment. 

The Independent Medical Examination Guidelines set out the information that an insurer is required to advise the worker when notifying of an appointment, including the reasons why the examination has been arranged as well as what they are required to take.

What should I do if I think it is unreasonable for me to attend an independent medical examination?

In the event that a worker considers an examination to be unreasonable despite the insurer complying with the above steps the worker can contact the insurer and discuss with them why they believe the examination to be unreasonable.

If the worker fails to attend an independent medical examination and the insurer believes they are being unreasonable (the insurer is to explore the reasons for the non-compliance and assist the worker to comply with the requirement) their weekly payments of compensation may be suspended.

The worker can contact their union, solicitor or WorkCover’s Claims Assistance Service on 13 10 50 for further assistance and advice.