FAQs
Find clear answers to the most common questions about Qualified Medical Evaluations. In addition, these FAQs explain the process and help you prepare effectively. As a result, you can feel confident about what to expect with Dr. Val Bellman, M.D., M.P.H., Psy.D., QME.
Clear answers to help you understand the QME process and prepare with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About QME Evaluations
Navigating the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) process can feel overwhelming, especially during a first workers’ compensation case. However, with the right guidance, you can feel more prepared and confident. For this reason, I’ve outlined answers to the most common questions patients and attorneys ask about psychiatric QME evaluations.
In addition, these FAQs explain how the selection process works. They also describe what to expect during your appointment and how to prepare. As a result, your evaluation will be thorough, accurate, and fair.
When does a QME evaluation happen?
A QME evaluation begins when there are disputes in a workers’ compensation case about treatment, disability, or causation. Either party can request an independent evaluation to help resolve the disagreement.
How is a QME selected?
A random panel of three qualified physicians is generated.
In psychiatric cases, all three will be Board-Certified Psychiatrists with QME certification.
You have the right to choose your evaluator from the panel.
If no physician has the right expertise, you can request a new panel.
Selections must be made within strict timeframes. If you miss the deadline, the insurance carrier will choose for you.
What should I consider when choosing a QME?
Selecting the right evaluator is critical. Consider:
Subspecialty training (e.g., trauma or occupational psychiatry).
Experience with workplace mental health conditions.
Familiarity with workers’ compensation cases.
Professional background, academic work, and evaluation approach.
Many injured workers consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney for guidance in making this choice.
How can I best prepare for my QME evaluation?
Preparation ensures a complete and accurate assessment. You should:
Gather documentation: psychiatric records, employment files, witness statements, and previous evaluations.
Track symptoms: keep a diary of frequency, severity, and impact on work/daily life.
Explain functional impact: be ready to share how your condition affects your concentration, stress tolerance, and relationships.
List treatment history: medications, therapies, hospitalizations, and their effectiveness.
Provide workplace context: incidents, ongoing stressors, and environment.
Be honest and consistent: credibility is crucial for your evaluation outcome.
What documents are essential to bring?
Key records include:
Psychiatric treatment notes, medication history, psychological testing, hospitalization records.
Therapy session notes, medication management visits, and group therapy documentation.
Symptom logs, work accommodation requests, missed work documentation.
Workplace reports (incident reports, performance evaluations, disciplinary records, correspondence).
Relevant pre-existing psychiatric or medical history.
Tip: Organize everything chronologically with a clear timeline.
What should I expect during the QME appointment?
A psychiatric QME evaluation is a comprehensive clinical assessment that can take several hours. It usually includes:
Pre-Evaluation: Review of your medical and work history.
Clinical Interview: In-depth questions about your condition and its impact.
Mental Status Examination: Assessment of mood, thought processes, and cognitive function.
Record Clarification: Discussion of any discrepancies in your records.
Detailed Assessment: Psychiatric history, causation analysis, symptom evaluation, functional capacity, and treatment response.
The goal is a thorough, evidence-based assessment that ensures fairness and accuracy in your workers’ compensation case.
Ready for a Clear,
Defensible Evaluation?
Whether you’re navigating a QME panel, requesting an independent evaluation, or need a psychiatric report that stands up to legal review—I’m here to help.