Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

Question	Answer
1. What is an IME?	An Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is a comprehensive medical examination conducted by a neutral and independent healthcare professional.
2. Why are IMEs performed?	IMEs are performed to provide an unbiased opinion about a person’s medical condition, treatment progress, or disability status.
3. Who requests an IME?	An IME is typically requested by an insurance company, employer, or legal representative involved in a claim or lawsuit.
4. What is the purpose of an Opioid Management IME?	An Opioid Management IME assesses a patient’s opioid use, including their clinical need, treatment effectiveness, and potential for addiction or misuse.
5. What is the purpose of a Brain Tumor IME?	A Brain Tumor IME evaluates a patient with a suspected or diagnosed brain tumor to determine the nature of the tumor, its impact on the patient’s health, and potential treatment options.
6. Who conducts an IME?	An IME is typically conducted by a licensed and experienced healthcare professional, such as a physician or specialist, with expertise in the relevant medical field.
7. How long does an IME take?	The duration of an IME can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it generally ranges from a few hours to a full day.
8. What should I bring to an IME appointment?	It is advisable to bring all relevant medical records, test results, and any other supporting documentation related to your medical condition or injury.
9. Can I have someone accompany me to an IME?	In most cases, you are allowed to have a support person accompany you to an IME appointment. However, their role may be limited to providing emotional support.
10. What happens after an IME?	After the IME, the healthcare professional prepares a detailed report containing their findings and conclusions, which is then provided to the requesting party.