IMEs Explained
FAQs
| Question | Mood Disorders IME | Cranial Surgery IME |
|---|---|---|
| 1. What is the purpose of the IME? | An IME for mood disorders assesses the impact of psychological conditions on an individual’s ability to function and perform daily activities. | An IME for cranial surgery evaluates the physical and neurological effects of the surgery on an individual and their potential for recovery. |
| 2. Who conducts the IME? | A mental health professional or psychiatrist conducts the IME for mood disorders. | A neurologist or neurosurgeon conducts the IME for cranial surgery. |
| 3. What assessments are involved? | Psychological assessments, interviews, and review of medical records are conducted to evaluate the impact of mood disorders. | Neurological examinations, imaging tests, and review of surgical records are conducted to assess the effects of cranial surgery. |
| 4. How long does the IME take? | The duration of the IME for mood disorders can vary, but it generally takes a few hours to a full day. | The duration of the IME for cranial surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes a few hours. |
| 5. What information is included in the final report? | The final report includes the individual’s psychiatric history, assessment results, diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and functional limitations. | The final report includes details of the surgery, neurological examination findings, prognosis, and recommendations for ongoing care or rehabilitation. |
| 6. What types of conditions are evaluated? | Conditions such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders are evaluated in a mood disorders IME. | Conditions such as brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and intracranial hemorrhages are evaluated in a cranial surgery IME. |
| 7. Is the IME covered by insurance? | Insurance coverage for mood disorders IME may vary. It is important to check with the insurance provider. | Insurance coverage for cranial surgery IME may vary. It is important to check with the insurance provider. |
| 8. How can I prepare for the IME? | Prior to the IME, it is helpful to gather all relevant medical records, prepare a list of medications, and be ready to discuss symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. | Prior to the IME, it is helpful to gather all relevant medical records, surgical reports, and be ready to discuss any neurological symptoms or changes experienced. |
| 9. Can I bring someone with me to the IME? | In most cases, individuals undergoing mood disorders IME can bring a support person with them for emotional support. | In most cases, individuals undergoing cranial surgery IME can bring a support person with them for emotional support. |
| 10. Can the IME results be used for legal purposes? | IME results for mood disorders can be used for legal purposes, such as disability claims or legal proceedings related to the impact of the condition. | IME results for cranial surgery can be used for legal purposes, such as disability claims or legal proceedings related to the effects of the surgery. |