IMEs Explained
| FAQs | Interventional Pain Management IME | Movement Disorders IME |
|---|---|---|
| 1. What is the main focus of the IME? | The main focus is to assess and manage chronic pain conditions through minimally invasive procedures. | The main focus is to evaluate and treat disorders that impair the ability to control movement. |
| 2. Which medical specialties are involved? | Anesthesiologists, physiatrists, or pain medicine specialists typically conduct the IME. | Neurologists or movement disorder specialists typically conduct the IME. |
| 3. What conditions are commonly addressed? | Conditions such as back pain, joint pain, neuropathy, and migraines are commonly addressed. | Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and Huntington’s disease are commonly addressed. |
| 4. What diagnostic tests are commonly used? | Tests like X-rays, MRI, CT scans, EMG, and nerve conduction studies are commonly used. | Tests like brain imaging, electromyography (EMG), and genetic testing may be used. |
| 5. What treatment options are available? | Treatment options may include nerve blocks, epidural steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation. | Treatment options may include medication management, deep brain stimulation (DBS), physical therapy, and botulinum toxin injections. |
| 6. Are medications typically prescribed? | Yes, medications such as opioids, NSAIDs, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed. | Yes, medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, and anticholinergic drugs may be prescribed. |
| 7. Can surgical interventions be recommended? | Yes, surgical interventions like spinal fusion or disc replacement may be recommended. | Yes, surgical interventions like DBS surgery or pallidotomy may be recommended. |
| 8. Is the IME covered by insurance? | IMEs related to interventional pain management are generally covered by insurance. | IMEs related to movement disorders are generally covered by insurance. |
| 9. Are multiple sessions usually required? | Multiple sessions may be required for ongoing pain management, depending on the condition. | Multiple sessions may be required for continuous monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans. |
| 10. Can the IME benefit individuals’ daily functioning? | Yes, the IME can improve individuals’ daily functioning by reducing pain levels and improving quality of life. | Yes, the IME can improve individuals’ daily functioning by managing symptoms and optimizing movement control. |