Des Moines Workers’ Comp Doctors And Independent Medical Exams (IME) In Iowa
Last updated on June 23, 2026
A work injury can turn your life upside down. In Iowa, your employer gets to pick the doctor who treats you, which leaves many injured workers feeling unheard and rushed. If a clinic you never chose is downplaying your pain, you deserve answers about your rights.
I am attorney Nick Platt of Platt Law Firm PC, and helping injured Iowans is all I do. From my Urbandale office, just minutes from Des Moines, I bring more than 15 years of focused experience and a deep connection to this community. I grew up here, I treat every client like family and I will hear you, respond to your questions and stand as a strong advocate for you.
The Company Doctor System In Des Moines
Under Iowa law, your employer or its insurer chooses your treating physician. That often means you are sent to a corporate occupational clinic such as Concentra Des Moines Occupational Health or a MercyOne Occupational Health work injury office. These clinics serve the company paying the bill, so they frequently return workers to light duty before the body has truly healed. Knowing how these Des Moines workers’ comp doctors operate is the first step toward protecting yourself.
What To Do When A Company Doctor Downplays Your Injury
It is frustrating when a physician treats your pain as an afterthought. A company doctor downplaying injuries may minimize your symptoms, miss a diagnosis or declare Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) too soon. You have the right to document your symptoms, request further care and challenge a premature MMI finding with proper legal support on your side.
Iowa Code Section 85.39 And Your Right To An Independent Medical Exam
When you disagree with the company doctor’s rating, the law gives you a powerful tool. Under Iowa Code Section 85.39, you may obtain an independent medical exam in Iowa from a neutral, qualified physician. In qualifying cases, the employer’s insurance must pay for that evaluation. As a workers’ comp IME lawyer in Des Moines, I help you use this statute to secure an honest, objective second opinion.
Choosing A Des Moines IME Doctor To Protect Your Settlement
The doctor who performs your exam can shape your entire outcome. I help clients connect with credentialed, independent specialists across the Des Moines metro to support an accurate permanent impairment rating. If you are facing a disputed impairment rating that Iowa insurers will not budge on, the right evaluation can change everything.
Talk To Me Today
At Platt Law Firm PC, I know your Iowa workers’ compensation rights. Call me at 515-346-6659 or send a message through my online contact form to schedule your free consultation.