QME & AME Evaluations

For Injured Workers — What Is a QME Evaluation?

If you've been directed to see Dr. Patibanda for a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) examination, you may have questions about what this means. Here's what you need to know.

A QMEis a physician certified by California's Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) to provide an independent medical opinion when there's a disagreement in your workers' compensation case — such as the nature of your injury, whether you need further treatment, or whether your condition has stabilized.

Dr. Patibanda is not “the insurance company's doctor” or “your attorney's doctor.” His role is to conduct a thorough, impartial evaluation and provide an honest medical opinion based on the evidence.

What to Expect

Your appointment will last approximately 2–3 hours and includes:

  • A detailed history — Dr. Patibanda will ask about your injury, symptoms, medical history, and how your condition affects your daily life and work. Take your time and be thorough.
  • A physical examination — A focused exam related to the body parts in dispute.
  • A records review — Dr. Patibanda will review your medical records, imaging, and any other documentation provided.

What to Bring

  • A valid photo ID
  • A list of your current medications
  • Any medical records or imaging you have (if not already provided)
  • A written list of complaints and symptoms if that helps you remember

What Happens After

Dr. Patibanda will prepare a comprehensive medical-legal report that is sent to all parties— your attorney, the insurance company's attorney, and the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board. You are entitled to receive a copy. Reports are typically completed within 30 days of your evaluation.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Bring an interpreter if English is not your primary language
  • Record the examination (audio only) with notice
  • Be treated with dignity and respect throughout the process
  • Receive a copy of the report

This is not an adversarial process.Dr. Patibanda's job is to provide an honest, thorough medical opinion — nothing more, nothing less. Please be open and candid about your symptoms and limitations. The more information he has, the more accurate the evaluation will be.

For Attorneys — Dr. Patibanda's QME Qualifications

Dr. Varun Patibanda is a DWC-certified Qualified Medical Evaluator specializing in pain medicine and physical medicine & rehabilitation, available for both Panel QME (ML-201-95) and Agreed Medical Evaluator (ML-201-94) appointments.

Board Certifications & Training

  • Pain Medicine — American Board of Pain Medicine (ABPM) and Certification Council in Pain Medicine (CCPM)
  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation — American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR)
  • Subspecialty expertise: Interventional pain management, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuromodulation, and spinal disorders

Evaluation Standards

  • AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, 5th Edition
  • Almaraz-Guzman rebuttal analysis when clinically indicated
  • ACOEM/MTUS treatment guideline compliance
  • Reports address all relevant issues including causation, apportionment, future medical care, and work restrictions

Turnaround & Reliability

Reports are delivered promptly, with clear organization and evidence-based reasoning. Dr. Patibanda understands that timely, well-supported reports keep cases moving toward resolution.

A Unique Clinical Perspective

Dr. Patibanda brings a unique perspective to medical-legal evaluation — as both a treating interventional pain physician and a chronic pain patient himself, his evaluations reflect a deep clinical and personal understanding of pain conditions. This dual perspective results in evaluations that are thorough, empathetic, and clinically grounded.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a QME different from my treating doctor?

Your treating doctor manages your care. A QME provides an independent medical opinion for your workers' compensation case. Dr. Patibanda will not take over your treatment — he evaluates and reports.

Can I bring someone with me to the appointment?

You may bring an interpreter or attorney representative. Family members may accompany you to the waiting area.

Will the QME prescribe treatment or medications?

No. A QME evaluation is not a treatment visit. Dr. Patibanda may make recommendations for future medical care in his report, but he will not prescribe treatment directly.

How long until the report is ready?

Reports are typically completed and distributed to all parties within 30 days of the evaluation.

What if I disagree with the findings?

Any party may request a supplemental report to address specific objections or additional questions. Your attorney can advise you on the process for challenging findings through the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board.