Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) Practice Exam

An injured worker has been told by his workers' compensation doctor that he is able to go back to work at full duty. The employee disagrees. What should you recommend?

1. Sending him back to a doctor of his choice for a final recommendation

2. Discussing an IME with the workers' compensation insurance

3. A referral to the company's labor attorney

4. Termination of employment if he does not return

The correct answer is: Discussing an IME with the workers' compensation insurance

The recommendation to discuss an Independent Medical Examination (IME) with the workers' compensation insurance is appropriate in this situation. An IME can provide an objective assessment of the employee's health status and ability to return to work. It serves as an impartial outside review, which can help resolve disputes when an employee disagrees with the conclusions of their treating physician regarding their fitness for work. By involving the IME, both the employer and the employee can gain clarity on the worker's medical condition and the legitimacy of their concerns, ultimately aiding in a fair resolution of the situation. The other options might not be as effective in addressing the immediate issue of the employee's disagreement. Sending the employee back to a doctor of his choice may lead to further complications if the new doctor also disagrees with the original assessment without a structured method of evaluation. Referring the situation to the company's labor attorney could be premature unless there are legal implications that need to be addressed after all medical assessments are completed. Terminating employment if the employee does not return could result in legal challenges and might not align with best practices for handling workplace injuries and disputes over medical opinions.