| Question |
Answer |
| What is an IME? |
An Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is an examination conducted by a qualified and impartial medical professional to assess an individual’s medical condition, injuries, or disabilities. |
| Who requests an IME? |
An IME can be requested by insurance companies, employers, attorneys, or other parties involved in a legal or insurance-related matter. |
| What is the purpose of an IME? |
The purpose of an IME is to obtain an independent and unbiased medical opinion regarding an individual’s medical condition or injuries, which can be used for legal or insurance purposes. |
| How is an IME different from a regular medical examination? |
An IME is different from a regular medical examination as it is usually conducted by a medical professional who is not involved in the individual’s ongoing treatment or care. |
| What can be evaluated during an IME? |
An IME can evaluate various aspects of an individual’s medical condition, including the nature and extent of injuries, the impact on daily functioning, the need for future medical treatment, and the level of impairment or disability. |
| Are IME reports confidential? |
IME reports are usually shared with the party who requested the evaluation, such as the insurance company or attorney. However, the information in these reports should be handled with confidentiality and used only for the intended purpose. |
| Can an IME be used as evidence in court? |
IME reports can be used as evidence in court, but their admissibility and weight as evidence depend on various factors, including the qualifications of the evaluating medical professional and the relevance of the findings to the case. |
| Is the opinion given in an IME final? |
The opinion given in an IME is an expert opinion based on the available medical information and examination. It is not necessarily final and can be subject to review, rebuttal, and cross-examination by other medical professionals. |
| How long does an IME typically take? |
The duration of an IME can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the specific evaluations required. It can range from a few hours to multiple days. |
| Who pays for the IME? |
The party requesting the IME is responsible for covering the costs, which are usually outlined in the agreement or arrangement made prior to the evaluation. |
