When can an injured worker not attend a QME/AME exam?

• A. When mileage is paid before the exam
• B. When mileage is NOT paid before the exam
• C. When you do not notify them 5 days before the exam
• D. There are no consequences for missing the appointment

Answer: (B)

The key point is that attendance at a QME/AME exam is tied to the worker’s travel costs being covered. In California workers’ compensation, the injured worker is typically reimbursed for reasonable travel to the QME/AME appointment. If those mileage/travel costs are not paid before the exam, the worker can legitimately decide not to attend until the reimbursement is arranged. This ensures the worker isn’t compelled to incur out-of-pocket expenses to participate in the evaluation process.

If mileage is provided in advance, attendance is expected. The other options don’t establish a prepaid travel condition, and while missing an appointment can have consequences in practice, the scenario given specifically hinges on whether travel costs are covered beforehand.