In QME evaluations, what is the purpose of "mediation"?

The purpose of mediation in QME evaluations centers around the idea of facilitating communication and negotiation between disputing parties. Mediation is a voluntary process that involves an impartial mediator who assists the involved individuals—often the claimant and the insurance provider or employer—in reaching a mutually acceptable resolution to their disputes.

In the context of QME evaluations, mediation is especially important because it can help to resolve differences regarding medical findings, treatment plans, or compensatory issues without the need for more adversarial approaches such as litigation. This process emphasizes collaboration and understanding, aiming to alleviate conflicts by allowing parties to express their needs and perspectives in a controlled environment.

Mediation promotes a quicker and often less contentious resolution to issues, which can be beneficial for all parties involved. It can result in agreements that are more satisfactory since they are developed through mutual consensus, as opposed to decisions imposed by an adjudicated process. This collaborative approach aligns well with the goals of QME evaluations, which seek to resolve disputes fairly and efficiently.