What is an independent medical evaluation?
During an IME, your health condition is thoroughly evaluated by a doctor who hasn’t already diagnosed or treated you. The purpose of an IME is to have an independent medical expert confirm the extent of your injuries, verify they were caused by the claimed incident, and determine if your current treatment is the best for your recovery.
When might I need an independent medical evaluation?
You may need an IME if you submit a workers’ compensation claim or file an insurance claim for an automobile accident or personal injury. The insurance company that will ultimately pay your medical benefits or compensation has the right to request an IME.
In many cases, they want the information to approve your claim or to verify that your treatment is justified before paying your medical bills. They may also request an IME if they want to dispute your case.
You can also request your own IME. Though IME physicians are independent of your case and provide an accurate assessment, it’s usually beneficial to have your own report to offset the report used by the insurance provider.
What happens during an independent medical evaluation?
During your IME, your provider at Mid Atlantic Orthopedic Associates, LLP, obtains the information needed to answer questions like:
- Is your diagnosis accurate?
- Did the work or car accident cause your injury?
- Do you need additional treatment or testing?
- When will you be ready to return to work?
- Do you have a permanent disability?
- Do you need rehabilitation?
Your provider reviews your existing medical records, evaluating the procedures, treatments, and testing done by your current physician. Then they perform a comprehensive exam that covers every aspect of your health and injuries.
Your provider may need to order additional diagnostic testing. They also perform a functional capacity evaluation to determine the long-term impact of your injuries.
In addition to your physical assessment, your IME at Mid Atlantic Orthopedic Associates, LLP, has another important job to do: They complete extensive medical-legal reports, including the detailed forms required by the insurance company.
