OrthoLegal Insights:
Commentary from our
QME Experts.
OrthoLegal’s commentary is written for the people in California’s medical-legal system: orthopaedic QMEs and AMEs, the attorneys who read their reports and the injured workers the reports are about. New posts cover evaluations, report writing, apportionment, case law and practice management, twice a week. Start with our page on QME evaluations or the page for physicians.
Impact of the Vigil Decision on QMEs in California’s Workers’ Compensation System
On June 10, 2024, the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) issued a significant en banc decision in Vigil v. County of Kern, which provides crucial ...
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Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Latino Workers
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, is a time to honor the rich culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic communities across ...
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Diagnostics in QME Evaluations
Forensic evaluations such as those conducted by Qualified Medical Evaluators (QMEs) require objective medical evidence such as imaging and diagnostic studies. A QME is required ...
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Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits in California’s Workers’ Compensation System
In California’s Workers’ Compensation system, injured workers have access to a range of benefits aimed at supporting their recovery and helping them return to work. ...
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The Importance of QME Availability in California Workers’ Compensation Cases
As a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) in California’s Workers’ Compensation system, your availability isn’t just a scheduling matter. It’s a requirement by the Division of ...
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Attorneys in California’s Workers’ Compensation System
California workers’ compensation has two kinds of attorney: the applicant attorney, who represents the injured worker, and the defense attorney, who represents the employer or ...
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Taking a Complete History of Injury
A comprehensive history from an injured worker is a required component of a QME evaluation. This information is the foundation for diagnosing the injury, understanding ...
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California QME Exam 101
Preparing for the California Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) examination is essential for physicians who wish to become certified as QMEs in the state. Offered twice ...
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State Certified Interpreters in California’s Workers’ Compensation
Non-English-speaking injured workers in California’s Workers’ Compensation system face avoidable challenges due to the lack of certified interpreters during critical stages of their cases. This ...
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The Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board
The Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) is the California body that decides disputed workers’ compensation cases. Seven members appointed by the governor sit on the ...
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What is a Conflict of Interest for a QME in California
Maintaining impartiality and integrity as a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) in California is paramount. A conflict of interest can undermine the trust placed in the ...
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The Replacement Panel Process for QMEs in California
Before 2005, there was no Panel Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) process in the California Workers’ Compensation system. Instead, medical disputes were resolved by QMEs chosen ...
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