Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

Question	Answer
1. What is a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME?	A Pediatric Rehabilitation IME is an independent medical evaluation conducted by a qualified medical professional specializing in the rehabilitation of children. It assesses the child’s physical, cognitive, and functional abilities, as well as their potential for improvement and need for ongoing rehabilitation therapy.
2. What is a Learning Disorders IME?	A Learning Disorders IME is an independent medical evaluation conducted by a qualified medical professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of learning disorders. It evaluates the child’s cognitive, academic, and social-emotional functioning to determine the presence and impact of any learning disorders, such as dyslexia or ADHD.
3. Who typically requests a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME?	A Pediatric Rehabilitation IME is usually requested by insurance companies, attorneys, or parents/caregivers involved in legal or insurance claim cases related to a child’s injury, disability, or medical condition requiring rehabilitation.
4. Who typically requests a Learning Disorders IME?	A Learning Disorders IME is often requested by parents, educators, or school districts when there are concerns about a child’s learning difficulties or academic performance. It can also be requested in legal proceedings to determine eligibility for special education services or accommodation.
5. What assessments are involved in a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME?	A Pediatric Rehabilitation IME may include physical examinations, medical history review, functional capacity evaluations, cognitive assessments, and interviews with the child and their caregivers. The specific assessments conducted will depend on the child’s condition and rehabilitation needs.
6. What assessments are involved in a Learning Disorders IME?	A Learning Disorders IME typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of the child’s cognitive abilities, academic achievement, attention, executive functions, and social-emotional development. The assessments may include standardized tests, interviews, observations, and review of relevant records.
7. How long does a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME usually take?	The duration of a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the assessments required. It can range from a few hours to a full day or multiple days.
8. How long does a Learning Disorders IME usually take?	The duration of a Learning Disorders IME also depends on the specific assessments and the child’s individual needs. It can take several hours to complete, typically carried out over one or two sessions.
9. Who writes the final report for a Pediatric Rehabilitation IME?	The evaluating medical professional who conducted the Pediatric Rehabilitation IME writes the final report. It includes an objective evaluation of the child’s abilities, prognosis, recommendations for therapy or treatment, and an opinion on the need for ongoing rehabilitation services.
10. Who writes the final report for a Learning Disorders IME?	The medical professional who conducted the Learning Disorders IME writes the final report, which summarizes the evaluation findings, diagnosis (if applicable), functional impairments, recommendations for interventions or accommodations, and eligibility for special education services.