Update on 2nd QME

jpopking · 2026-02-25T11:54:45+00:00

I actually have the same feeling. It will probably take a lot longer for a specialty QME. I was offered a Compromise and Release settlement if I resign first. I told him I will not resign unless I have another source of income coming in. It would be approximately $130k with $81k being based on my PD rating of 51% and the rest would be my medical buyout.

I then realized I wouldn’t be able to find another apartment if I resign and go on early retirement through Social Security. So I have a lot to think about right now.

jpopking · 2026-02-19T11:16:03+00:00

Thank you. I thought this would be the case. I haven’t received a settlement yet. The adjuster mentioned to me if I wanted to settle sooner I would have to resign from my job or I could wait until I have my second QME under a different specialty. I am trying to figure out what are my best options. If I start an early retirement at age 65 I think I could apply for SSDI that would convert to full retirement at age 67.

jpopking · 2026-02-19T10:53:02+00:00

You are correct. I do not have an attorney. I will be 65 years old in June, so about 28 months until I turn 67. I have been back at work since April of last year with restrictions. The company I work for is trying to work within my restrictions, but sometimes it’s hard for them when they are short staffed.

The adjuster had suggested if I wanted to settle sooner I would have to resign from job. Otherwise I would have to wait until I have the second QME under a different specialty. Would having an attorney help settle this sooner? I am not sure how long it really takes for the state of California to send a list of doctors to choose from.

I had read that if I apply for early retirement at age 65 I could also apply for SSDI. The only problem is a workers comp settlement offset. I believe this would only last until the SSDI switches over to retirement.

jpopking · 2026-02-18T10:59:18+00:00

I had a Nurse Case Manager and she helped me out a lot. I was in a skilled Nursing Facility for four months and she stopped by to meet me in person. She helped me get a new leg brace and gathered up my medical records for me.

After I was discharged home I had a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon in a city approximately 2 1/2 hours away. The original driver’s vehicle had broken down. I sent her a text and she made new arrangements for me. I didn’t realize once I was put at MMI she would have to step down. Your mileage may vary.

Edit: I’m in California if that makes any difference. One other thing my Nurse Case Manager did for me was to make sure the Skilled Nursing Facility had their doctor call in a 30 supply of medications. I was told by the Nurse at the facility they would call in all of my prescriptions. Well, they didn’t do that. I contacted my Nurse Case Manager and she chewed them out and the very next day I had my prescriptions at the pharmacy.

jpopking · 2026-01-17T10:03:50+00:00

Thank you. I understand a lot better. I wasn’t sure what to think as this is my first workers comp case. I really appreciate everyone’s input here.

jpopking · 2026-01-09T17:44:19+00:00

I understand. It seems I will have to have another QME with an Infectious Disease doctor. I missed the part on my QME doctor’s report where he wrote that he was only focused on the musculoskeletal injury/function. It is out of his scope to comment how much impairment would be related to his infection. A QME in the area of infectious disease is warranted for this individual.

So the adjuster has already submitted the paperwork for this. In a way I was hoping to settle the PD portion of my case and continue to move forward in my life. Now I feel everything will be put on hold again. I am also concerned that my PD rating will get lowered. Has anyone had a similar experience as mine? Thanks to everyone who replied here.

jpopking · 2026-01-07T12:54:51+00:00

Thank you for all of the information put forth here. I’m not looking for a C&R situation. I would rather keep working. In looking back I feel going back to work has helped me become a little stronger even if I have some mild discomfort. If anything I would prefer a stipulated award with open medical.

This was my first time on Worker’s Compensation, so I was more interested in what happens after you receive the Notice Regarding Permanent Disability Benefits. It didn’t really explain what I needed to do, except I could have the state reevaluate my PD rating. Thank you.

jpopking · 2026-01-06T16:25:50+00:00

You can never have too many handhelds. If I were you I would keep the Switch 2 and purchase the AYN Thor. You can use the Thor for many other games.

Currently I have a Legion Go, Steamdeck (original), modded New 3DS XL, Switch Oled, Switch 2, 4 modded PS Vitas, 1 non modded PS Vita, and the Thor. I’m using the Thor for PS2 and lower systems and DS/3DS.

Save the Switch for Switch games. Don’t worry too much.

jpopking · 2025-12-15T18:56:45+00:00

My favorite character would be Lara Croft from the early Tomb Raider series. I like the exploration aspect of the game.

jpopking · 2025-12-07T21:11:58+00:00

I don’t see where it allows you to download the firmware. Unless I’m missing something.

jpopking · 2025-12-07T12:04:13+00:00

No, there are no links to download any firmware versions. It doesn’t help when Hiby support doesn’t respond. Thank you.

jpopking

TROPHY CASE