Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

Question	Answer
1. What is a Traumatic Brain Injury IME?	A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) IME is a medical evaluation conducted by a healthcare professional with expertise in brain injuries. It is used to assess the extent of damage caused by a traumatic brain injury.
2. What is a Behavioral Disorders IME?	A Behavioral Disorders IME is a medical evaluation conducted by a healthcare professional specializing in mental health and behavioral disorders. It is used to assess and diagnose a person’s behavioral disorders and provide recommendations for treatment.
3. What are the main differences between TBI IME and Behavioral Disorders IME?	The main difference lies in the focus of evaluation. TBI IMEs primarily assess the physical impact of a brain injury, while Behavioral Disorders IMEs focus on assessing and diagnosing mental health and behavioral disorders.
4. Who performs TBI IMEs and Behavioral Disorders IMEs?	TBI IMEs are typically performed by neurologists, neuropsychiatrists, or other healthcare providers with specialized training in brain injuries. Behavioral Disorders IMEs are conducted by psychiatrists or psychologists specializing in behavioral disorders.
5. What is the purpose of TBI IMEs?	The purpose of TBI IMEs is to evaluate and document the severity of a brain injury, assess its impact on cognitive and functional abilities, and provide recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.
6. What is the purpose of Behavioral Disorders IMEs?	The purpose of Behavioral Disorders IMEs is to diagnose and assess mental health disorders such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, conduct disorder, and provide recommendations for appropriate treatment and interventions.
7. Are TBI IMEs and Behavioral Disorders IMEs covered by insurance?	Insurance coverage for IMEs may vary depending on the specific insurance policy and individual circumstances. It is advisable to check with the insurance provider regarding coverage details.
8. How long does a TBI IME or Behavioral Disorders IME typically take?	The duration of an IME can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Generally, TBI IMEs and Behavioral Disorders IMEs can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete.
9. Can a person undergo both TBI IME and Behavioral Disorders IME?	Yes, a person can undergo both types of IMEs if there is a need to assess both the physical effects of a brain injury and any associated behavioral disorders.
10. Is preparation required before undergoing a TBI IME or Behavioral Disorders IME?	It is recommended to gather relevant medical records, reports, and any other supporting documentation related to the injury or disorder. This information can assist the evaluating healthcare professional in making an accurate assessment.