If a panel is not signed within _____ days, the employee shall have the right to obtain a medical evaluation from any qualified medical evaluator of his or her choice within a reasonable geographic area.

• A. 15 working days
• B. 25 working days
• C. 20 working days
• D. 30 working days

Answer: (C)

Deadline for when an employee can obtain an independent medical evaluation if a panel isn’t signed.

In California self‑insured plans, the employer must provide a panel of physicians to accommodate a work‑related injury. If that panel isn’t signed within a defined number of days, the employee gains the right to choose a qualified medical evaluator (QME) and obtain an evaluation within a reasonable geographic area. The prescribed timeframe in this scenario is 20 working days. This exact deadline creates a clear, prompt path to medical assessment, preventing unnecessary delays while still giving the employer time to finalize the panel.

This approach ensures the employee isn’t left waiting indefinitely and maintains access to an impartial medical evaluation to support medical decisions and potential compensation actions. The 20‑day limit balances the employer’s administrative needs with the employee’s right to timely medical evaluation.