Resources

Click on each link below to access the study resources.

1) LME California Workers’ Compensation Exam Study Guide.

This study guide contains review sections of the most important source content for the examination, including the AMA Guides 5th Edition chapters 1, 2, and 18; the DWC QME Study Guide; and the DWC Physician’s Guide.

2) LME Rapid Review Study Guide

This rapid-review study guide has extremely high-yield information and is meant to be reviewed following completion of review of the other materials listed in this section. It will help tremendously as you put the finishing touches on your studying.

3) QME Competency Examination Information Booklet

This is an information booklet published by the California Division of Workers' Compensation that has information regarding the structure, format, and administration of the QME Competency Examination. Review it once.

4) DWC QME Competency Examination Study Guide

This is an official study guide published in 2017 by the California Division of Workers' Compensation to assist physicians in preparing for the QME Competency Examination. It provides substantive review of the four competency areas, including causation and apportionment, disability and impairment evaluation, clinical assessment, and the laws and regulations governing QME practice. It also includes key case law, important statutory provisions, and guidance on report writing standards. Although some of the information is outdated, it is one of the most important resources for examination preparation and should be reviewed carefully and in its entirety.

5) DWC QME Physician’s Guide to Medical Practice in the California Workers’ Compensation System

This is the official reference guide published by the California Division of Workers' Compensation for physicians practicing in the workers' compensation system. It covers the full scope of QME roles and responsibilities, the medical-legal evaluation process, report writing requirements, impairment rating methodology, causation and apportionment principles, and relevant Labor Code provisions.

6) California Labor Codes 4060, 4061, 4062, 139.2, and 139.3.

These are among the most heavily tested statutory provisions on the QME examination. Labor Code sections 4060, 4061, and 4062 govern the process for obtaining comprehensive medical evaluations in disputed workers' compensation claims, including the procedures applicable to unrepresented and represented injured workers. Section 139.2 establishes the requirements for QME appointment, reappointment, discipline, and continuing education. Section 139.3 prohibits self-referral by physicians and requires specific disclosure language in all medical-legal reports; failure to include this disclosure renders a report inadmissible.

7) AMA Guides, 5th Edition, Chapters 1, 2, and 18

The AMA Guides, 5th Edition, is the foundational reference for impairment rating in California workers' compensation cases where the injured worker reached permanent and stationary status on or after January 1, 2005. While familiarity with the full text is important for QME practice, the examination information booklet specifically directs candidates to prioritize chapters 1, 2, and 18. Chapter 1 introduces the philosophy and purpose of impairment evaluation. Chapter 2 addresses the practical aspects of performing and reporting impairment evaluations. Chapter 18 covers the evaluation of pain and the conditions under which an additional impairment rating for pain may be appropriate. There is a newer edition of the AMA Guides which is not used in California; California uses the 5th edition.

8) Question Banks

Working through question banks helps reinforce substantive knowledge, familiarize candidates with the multiple-choice format used on the examination, and identify areas requiring additional review. Several third-party QME question banks and practice examinations are commercially available.