Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

Question	Answer
What is an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME)?	An Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is an examination performed by a qualified medical professional who is not involved in the ongoing treatment of a patient. It is used to provide an unbiased medical opinion on the patient’s condition, injuries, or disability.
What is the purpose of an IME?	The purpose of an IME is to assess and evaluate the medical condition or injuries of an individual. It helps insurance companies, employers, or legal entities gather objective information to make informed decisions regarding claims, disability benefits, personal injury lawsuits, or workers’ compensation cases.
Who performs an IME?	An IME is conducted by a medical professional who specializes in the relevant field. These professionals can include doctors, surgeons, psychologists, or other healthcare providers with expertise in the specific area being evaluated.
What can an IME assess?	An IME can assess a variety of medical conditions, injuries, or disabilities. It can evaluate physical impairments, psychological conditions, functional limitations, and the overall impact on the individual’s daily life or ability to work.
How long does an IME usually take?	The duration of an IME appointment can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the specific evaluations required. It can range from a few hours to a full day.
What should I bring to an IME?	It is important to bring any relevant medical documents such as medical records, test results, X-rays, medication lists, and a detailed description of your symptoms or injuries. You may also be asked to bring identification and insurance information.
Can I have someone accompany me to the IME?	In some cases, you may be allowed to have a family member or an advocate accompany you to the IME. However, it is advised to check with the conducting organization beforehand to confirm their policy regarding accompaniment.
Will my treating physician receive the IME report?	In most cases, the IME report will be shared with the referring party, which may include your treating physician, employer, insurer, or legal representative. This allows them to better understand your condition and make informed decisions regarding your treatment or claims.
Can an IME be used as evidence in legal proceedings?	Yes, an IME report can be used as evidence in legal proceedings. It is considered an expert opinion based on an objective evaluation, which can support or challenge existing claims or arguments in a court of law.
Are IMEs covered by insurance?	Insurance coverage for IMEs can vary depending on the specific policies and agreements. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider or the referring organization to determine the coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.