Question
Can MetLife request a second IME if I already have one that agreed with my dr's?
I am on STD with Metlife through my employer for severe depression, anxiety, stress and migraines. When I first went out on STD I was out and approved for Fibromyalgia, Deg. disc disease and sciatica. Metlife sent me to a Independent med exam and the examiner said I could return to work. I did not go back to work bcs I was also seeing a Neurologist, Psychiatrist and Therapist for my depression, stress, migraines, etc. Metlife sent me to a second independent examiner this time for my psychological problems. The Independent examiner agreed with my dr’s and my diagnosis to keep my out of work. Under the psychological diagnosis I have been out of work for 5 Months and now Metlife wants to send me to ANOTHER Independent medical exam even though my Psychiatrist, Therapist and Neurologist have all turned in paperwork of my office notes and medication. They said the previous independent medical exam was only good for 90 days and they have scheduled me for another independent exam. Can they do that if I’ve already had one independent medical examiner who already agreed with my dr’s?
Answer
Casandra, although it is not common for two IMEs in such a short period of time, due to the fact it is a STD claim and not LTD they would have a right to request, especially if the IME doctor is for a review of a medical condition not previously assessed in the prior IME.
