Can I Get a Second Opinion After a Workers’ Comp Injury in South Carolina?

Why You Might Want a Second Opinion

After a workplace injury, your medical treatment plays a major role in your benefits—and your recovery. But what happens if you don’t agree with the company doctor’s diagnosis or feel your injury isn’t being taken seriously?

In South Carolina, the workers’ compensation system allows you to request a second opinion or independent medical examination (IME) under certain circumstances. This can help verify your condition and prevent you from being forced back to work too soon.

How to Request a Second Opinion

You cannot simply schedule a visit with another doctor on your own and expect workers’ comp to pay for it. Instead, you or your attorney must formally request a second opinion from the employer’s insurance company or through the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Reasons for requesting an IME include:

• You believe your treatment plan is inadequate

• The doctor says you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), but you still have pain

• You’re facing surgery or a major procedure and want another doctor’s view

• The insurance company is disputing your ongoing treatment or work restrictions

What to Expect During an Independent Medical Examination

During an IME, a new physician—usually a specialist—reviews your medical history, examines you, and gives an opinion on:

• Whether you’ve reached MMI

• Whether your ongoing symptoms are related to your workplace injury

• What restrictions or future treatment you need

This opinion can be used to support your claim, extend benefits, or challenge an early release from care.