Do QMEs Get Paid for Supplemental Reports?
Yes. California’s Medical-Legal Fee Schedule specifically compensates Qualified Medical Evaluators (QMEs) for preparing a supplemental report when additional information surfaces or when a party requests clarification of your original findings. The applicable billing code is ML202.
When a Supplemental Report Is Billable
• New evidence arrives: MRI films, surgical records, or witness statements that could change causation, apportionment, or rating.
• Clarification is requested: An attorney submits written questions to resolve ambiguities in your first report.
• Procedural corrections: You need to add a missed signature, correct a typographical error, or answer a previously overlooked issue.
Fee and Modifiers
- Base fee (ML202): $650 (2024-25 schedule)
- Record-review modifier (-B): Bill $3.00 per page in 15-minute increments when you review new records.
- Complexity modifier (-C): Add 25 % for multiple body parts or psych overlay, if applicable.
Unlike comprehensive evaluations (ML200), a supplemental report never includes a face-to-face exam, so do not bill time-based code ML204 for this service.
Documentation Checklist
- Attach the party’s written request or a cover letter summarizing why the supplement is needed.
- List new records reviewed, with Bates-page ranges and minutes spent.
- Answer questions point-by-point, stating whether—and how—the new data alters impairment, apportionment, or future care.
- Serve the report and invoice within 60 days of receiving the request.
Timely Payment
The claims administrator must pay within 60 days of receiving your ML202 invoice. If payment is late, Labor Code §4622 lets you add a 10 % penalty plus interest.
For the official fee schedule and code definitions, see California’s Medical-Legal Fee Schedule (§9795).