What is the primary function of a QME?

The primary function of a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) is to evaluate and provide findings on work-related injuries. This role is crucial in the workers' compensation system, as it involves assessing the extent of an injured worker's medical condition, determining the relationship between the work-related injury and the medical findings, and offering an objective opinion regarding the impact of the injury on the worker's ability to function.

QMEs perform thorough examinations, review medical records, and may utilize diagnostic tests to form a comprehensive understanding of the impairment. Their evaluations are used to help determine compensation benefits, guide treatment recommendations, and resolve disputes between employees and employers or insurance providers regarding work-related injuries.

Other options, such as administering medical treatment or managing patient care plans, do not align with the role of a QME, as their function is primarily evaluative and not therapeutic. Acting as mediators could also misrepresent the role of a QME. While they may provide information that facilitates dialogue between parties, their responsibility lies in delivering unbiased medical assessments rather than serving as direct intermediaries.