Skip to main content

Panel Qualified Medical Evaluation

At Bay Area Orthopaedic & Sports Specialists, led by Dr. Warren J. Strudwick, Jr., we proudly offer Panel Qualified Medical Evaluations (PQME) for injured workers navigating workers’ compensation claims. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Strudwick and his team deliver thorough, unbiased assessments that ensure fair and accurate resolutions in complex cases.

What is a Panel Qualified Medical Evaluation (PQME)?

A Panel Qualified Medical Evaluation (PQME) is an essential part of the workers’ compensation process in California. It is a comprehensive medical-legal evaluation conducted by a state-certified physician chosen from a list of three doctors provided by the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). A PQME is used when there is no agreement between the parties on which doctor should conduct the evaluation.

The primary purpose of a PQME is to resolve disputes about the nature and extent of a worker’s injuries, the cause of the injury, or the degree of disability. PQME evaluations are particularly critical when there is disagreement between the injured worker and the insurance company regarding medical issues. These evaluations provide an impartial medical opinion to help determine the appropriate level of benefits or necessary treatments.

Who Needs a PQME?

A PQME is typically required when:

  • There is a dispute regarding whether an injury or illness is work-related.
  • Parties disagree on the extent of permanent disability caused by a work injury.
  • Disputes arise over the type or necessity of medical treatment.
  • An employer or claims administrator disputes a doctor’s findings in a workers’ comp case.
  • When the parties can’t agree on which doctor should conduct the evaluation.

The PQME Process

A PQME begins with submitting a request to the DWC Medical Unit. Either party in the workers’ compensation case—usually the injured worker or the insurance company—may initiate this request. The Medical Unit provides a list of three evaluators in the relevant specialty. The injured worker or their representative selects one of the three doctors to perform the evaluation.

Before the evaluation, both parties submit relevant documents, including medical records, accident reports, and any necessary correspondence. At Bay Area Orthopaedic & Sports Specialists, we ensure all records are reviewed comprehensively, allowing for a complete understanding of the injury, treatment history, and any disputed issues.

During the examination, Dr. Strudwick evaluates the worker’s injury and its impact on their daily life and work activities. This includes:

  • Discussing the details of the injury.
  • Reviewing the patient’s medical history.
  • Conducting a physical examination.
  • Evaluating the worker’s functional abilities and limitations.

Following the examination, Dr. Strudwick prepares a detailed report addressing the disputed medical issues. The report may include opinions on the following:

  • Whether the injury is work-related.
  • The extent of temporary or permanent disability.
  • The need for additional treatment or work restrictions.
  • The causation of the condition, especially in cases with prior injuries.

Why Choose Bay Area Orthopaedic & Sports Specialists for PQME Services?

At Bay Area Orthopaedic & Sports Specialists, we are committed to providing:

  • Unbiased and Expert Opinions: Dr. Strudwick is a state-certified PQME with decades of experience in orthopedics and workers’ compensation cases.
  • Comprehensive Evaluations: Our detailed approach ensures all aspects of your injury are considered, leading to an accurate and fair assessment.
  • Clear and Concise Reporting: We prepare reports that are easy to understand and address all medical-legal questions thoroughly.
  • Professionalism and Integrity: We prioritize transparency and fairness, ensuring that all evaluations are conducted according to the highest ethical standards.

With our expertise in PQME services, you can feel confident that your evaluation will be conducted professionally and accurately. Let us help you take the next step in resolving your workers’ compensation case. Contact us today to schedule your medical evaluation or learn more about our comprehensive services.

Get back in
the game

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 510-922-1614.