A Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) is a licensed medical professional who has been certified by the state to perform independent medical evaluations in workers' compensation cases. While QMEs are not psychology-specific degrees, psychologists and other mental health professionals can become QMEs to assess and evaluate psychological or psychiatric injuries that may be related to a workers' compensation claim.
To become a QME, a psychologist or other mental health professional must meet specific state requirements, which often include having a valid license to practice in their field, completing a state-approved QME training course, and passing a competency examination. Once certified, QMEs can be called upon to evaluate workers who have filed a claim for work-related injuries or illnesses, including those involving psychological or psychiatric issues.
QMEs conduct evaluations to determine the extent and cause of a worker's injury or illness, provide an opinion on the appropriateness of medical treatment, assess whether the worker has reached maximum medical improvement, and determine the level of permanent disability, if any. They also provide written reports outlining their findings and recommendations.
In summary, a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) is a certified medical professional, including psychologists and other mental health professionals, who perform independent medical evaluations in workers' compensation cases. QMEs assess and evaluate psychological or psychiatric injuries related to workers' compensation claims and provide recommendations on treatment, disability, and other related issues.