Upcoming IME exam for EDD disability - are they trying to terminate my benefits early?

I had an IME about 6 months ago for my SDI claim (shoulder surgery). Here's what to expect: - It's usually a short appointment (20-30 minutes) - They'll review your medical records - Ask about your symptoms and limitations - Do a basic physical examination - May ask about your job duties specifically My best advice: be honest but don't minimize your symptoms. Describe your worst days not your best days. Bring copies of recent MRIs or other imaging if you have them. Also bring a list of all medications and treatments you've tried. The IME doctor works for EDD, not you, so they're looking to verify you still qualify for benefits. Don't exaggerate (they can tell), but make sure they understand your full limitations. Don't panic though - not everyone gets cut off. I passed my IME and continued receiving benefits until I returned to work.

they r DEFINITELY trying to cut u off!!!! my cousin had same thing happen nd the doctor spent like 5 min with him and boom benefits GONE!!! these IME docs r paid to find nothing wrong, thats how the system works. EDD just wants to stop paying u. bring EVERYTHING u can - all ur medical files, pics of ur injury if u have them, videos of ur bad days. dont let them rush u!!!

I've helped several clients through the IME process for California SDI. A few important points to understand: 1. IMEs are standard for longer disability claims (usually 3+ months) - it doesn't mean EDD suspects fraud 2. Preparation matters - bring a current medication list, treatment timeline, and copies of recent medical documentation 3. The exam typically focuses on your specific medical condition and functional limitations 4. Be prepared to describe how your condition affects daily activities and work duties specifically 5. If possible, bring a simple journal documenting symptom severity over 1-2 weeks I've seen many clients continue benefits after IMEs. The key is documentation and clearly explaining your functional limitations related to your job requirements. Your doctor should also be prepared to respond if the IME doctor requests additional information afterward. Be honest about your condition - don't exaggerate or minimize. And if you get an adverse decision, remember you have appeal rights.

I went through an IME last month and it was WAY less scary than I expected! Doctor was actually pretty nice. Asked about my symptoms, did some basic range of motion tests, and reviewed my file. Got a letter 10 days later saying my benefits would continue. Just be honest and you'll be fine!

I'm going through something similar right now with my disability claim. I've had multiple IMEs over the years (chronic condition), and they're usually looking for a few key things: 1. Is your condition still medically supported? 2. Are your symptoms consistent with your diagnosis? 3. Do your limitations match your job requirements? 4. Are you following treatment recommendations? Something that's helped me: Before the appointment, write down EXACTLY how your condition limits your ability to perform specific job functions. Be very concrete. For construction with a back injury, explain precisely why you can't lift/bend/climb/etc. without risking further injury. One thing to know - if they suddenly cut off your benefits after the IME, you can and should appeal immediately. The appeal success rate is surprisingly high if you have good medical documentation. Don't give up if you get bad news. Honestly though, getting through to EDD during the appeal process can be absolute nightmare. Last time I had to appeal, I couldn't get through on the phone for WEEKS. I finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an EDD agent in about 15 minutes instead of spending days redialing. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd Good luck with the IME! Try not to stress too much before it happens.

my back injury took 18 months to fully recover and i had 2 IMEs during that time. passed the first but failed the second eventhough i wasnt better yet!! doctor said i could do "modified work" when my real doctor said i couldnt work at all. my company didnt have light duty so i was just out of luck. the whole system is rigged...just prepare for the worst

From my experience as someone who deals with the CA disability system regularly: IMEs serve a legitimate purpose - they help verify that benefits are going to those who truly need them. Yes, some IME doctors are more restrictive than others, but most are professional and thorough. A few practical tips: 1. Dress comfortably but appropriately 2. Answer questions directly without volunteering unnecessary information 3. If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification 4. If a movement causes pain, say so immediately - don't push through 5. Bring a list of all doctors, treatments, and medications After the IME, request a copy of the report for your records. This is especially important if you need to appeal later. The decision usually takes 10-14 days, and benefits typically continue during this evaluation period.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I feel much better prepared now. I've started documenting my daily pain levels and limitations, gathered all my medical records, and made a list of how my condition prevents me from doing specific job tasks. I'll update after my appointment to let you all know how it went. Fingers crossed they understand I genuinely want to return to work, just not before I'm medically ready to do so safely.