IMEs Explained
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are Behavioral Disorder IMEs? | Behavioral Disorder IMEs refer to Independent Medical Examinations conducted to assess and evaluate individuals who exhibit behavioral disorders. These disorders may include ADHD, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and others. |
| What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) IME? | Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) IMEs are Independent Medical Examinations specific to individuals suffering from CRPS. CRPS is a chronic pain condition that usually affects an arm or a leg and typically develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. |
| What is the main difference between the two? | The main difference between Behavioral Disorder IMEs and CRPS IMEs lies in the focus of assessment. Behavioral Disorder IMEs evaluate psychological or psychiatric conditions, while CRPS IMEs focus on assessing the physical condition and pain experienced by individuals suffering from CRPS. |
| Who typically conducts Behavioral Disorder IMEs? | Behavioral Disorder IMEs are often conducted by qualified mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, who specialize in assessing and diagnosing behavioral disorders. |
| Who conducts CRPS IMEs? | CRPS IMEs are typically carried out by medical professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, pain management specialists, or neurologists, who have expertise in diagnosing and treating CRPS. |
| What is the purpose of Behavioral Disorder IMEs? | The purpose of Behavioral Disorder IMEs is to obtain an unbiased opinion about an individual’s psychological functioning, diagnosis, and treatment needs. These assessments are commonly used in legal, insurance, or disability claim cases. |
| What is the purpose of CRPS IMEs? | The purpose of CRPS IMEs is to evaluate the severity of the condition, identify its causes, assess the impact on daily activities, and make recommendations for appropriate medical treatment and rehabilitation. These examinations are often requested by insurance companies or legal entities. |
| What does a Behavioral Disorder IME involve? | A Behavioral Disorder IME typically involves a comprehensive evaluation, which includes interviews, psychological testing, analysis of medical records, and collateral information from relevant sources, such as family members or teachers. |
| What does a CRPS IME involve? | A CRPS IME involves a thorough physical examination of the affected body part, review of medical history and imaging studies, assessment of pain levels, and evaluation of functional limitations. Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended based on the findings. |
| Are IME reports confidential? | IME reports are typically confidential and shared only with the requesting party, such as the legal representative or insurance company. However, the examinee may be provided with a copy of the report upon written request. |