Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

FAQs	Answers
1. What is a Traumatic Brain Injury IME?	A Traumatic Brain Injury Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is a medical assessment conducted by an independent medical professional to evaluate the physical, cognitive, and emotional effects of a traumatic brain injury.
2. What is a Tendon and Ligament IME?	A Tendon and Ligament Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is a medical assessment performed by an independent medical professional to assess the physical condition, functionality, and any impairments related to tendons and ligaments.
3. How are these IMEs different?	The main difference between a Traumatic Brain Injury IME and a Tendon and Ligament IME is the focus of evaluation. While the former concentrates on brain injury effects, the latter assesses conditions related to tendons and ligaments.
4. Who conducts these IMEs?	Both Traumatic Brain Injury IMEs and Tendon and Ligament IMEs are conducted by independent medical professionals, often specialists in their respective fields, who are unbiased and provide objective assessments.
5. What is the purpose of these IMEs?	The purpose of both types of IMEs is to provide an unbiased and objective evaluation of an individual’s medical condition, its impact on their functionality, and any impairments related to the specific injury or condition.
6. Who may request these IMEs?	IMEs can be requested by a variety of parties, including insurance companies, attorneys, employers, or individuals involved in legal or compensation claims related to the injuries.
7. Are these evaluations mandatory?	In some cases, these evaluations may be required by law or as part of an insurance or legal procedure. However, whether they are mandatory or not depends on the specific circumstances and jurisdiction.
8. How long does an IME typically take?	The duration of an IME can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the number of assessments required, and the availability of medical professionals. It can range from a few hours to multiple days.
9. Will the IME results be shared with all parties involved?	Generally, the IME report is shared with the requesting party, who may then choose to share it with other involved parties, including opposing counsel, insurance companies, or relevant authorities.
10. Can a person challenge the findings of an IME?	Yes, if a person disagrees with the findings of an IME, they can seek a second opinion or present their evidence to challenge the evaluation. However, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals regarding the appropriate steps.