Carrier Cannot Require Treating Doctor to Use IME Provider as Consulting Psychologist

The Montana Workers’ Compensation Court ruled that an insurer cannot designate a psychologist to be its independent medical examiner and the consulting psychologist for claimant’s treating physician. Case: Ross v. Victory Insurance Co., No. 2017-4035, 09/21/2017. Facts: Jody Ross injured her neck and shoulder at work in April 2013. Her employer’s comp carrier accepted liability for her injuries. Ross underwent neck surgery in August 2013 and shoulder surgery in September 2014. Her shoulder surgeon referred her to Dr. Steve Kemple, a pain specialist. Kemple has been t...