Define: Independent Medical Examination

An Independent Medical Examination (IME) is a medical evaluation conducted by a neutral and independent healthcare professional to assess an individual’s medical condition, treatment, and disability status. It is often requested by insurance companies, employers, or legal entities to obtain an unbiased opinion regarding the individual’s medical condition.

IMEs are commonly requested by insurance companies during the claims process, employers in workers’ compensation cases, or attorneys representing either the plaintiff or defendant in a legal dispute involving personal injury or disability claims.

In most cases, if you have been requested to attend an IME, you are legally obligated to comply. Failure to attend without a valid reason may have consequences, such as denial of insurance benefits or potential negative impact on your legal case.

Typically, the party requesting the IME has the right to select the healthcare professional who will perform the examination. However, some jurisdictions may allow you to request a different examiner if you can provide a valid reason for your request.

During an IME, the healthcare professional will review your medical records, conduct a physical examination, and may ask you questions about your medical history, symptoms, and treatment. They will then prepare a report detailing their findings and opinions.

In most cases, you are allowed to have a support person accompany you to the IME. However, their role may be limited to providing emotional support and they may not actively participate in the examination or discussions.

If you disagree with the findings or conclusions of an IME, you may have the right to challenge them. This can be done by obtaining a second opinion from another qualified healthcare professional or through legal means, such as presenting contradictory evidence in court.

Yes, the report generated from an IME can be used as evidence in a legal case. However, its weight and credibility may be subject to scrutiny and challenge by opposing parties.

In most cases, you have the right to request a copy of the IME report. However, the specific procedures and requirements for obtaining a copy may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the party who requested the examination.

In some cases, you may be entitled to compensation for attending an IME, such as reimbursement for travel expenses or loss of income due to missed work. It is advisable to consult with your attorney or insurance provider to understand the potential compensation available to you.