An Independent Medical Exam (IME) is a medical evaluation that an injured person may be asked to attend after filing an injury claim. Despite how it sounds, an IME is not a treatment appointment. Rather, it is a medical evaluation requested in connection with an injury claim or lawsuit. It is not a treatment. In many cases, the exam is arranged by the insurance company, employer, or defense and is used to evaluate the nature and extent of the claimed injuries.
In this article, we will look at what an IME involves, why it is requested, how to prepare for one, and what rights you have at the exam. Learn more about what insurance companies do to monitor claims by reading our guide about what insurance surveillance means.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- IMEs assess injuries through discussion, medical record review, and a physical exam, typically conducted by a doctor selected by the insurer.
- Results can affect benefits, disability status, and treatment, making them an important part of the claims process.Results can affect benefits, disability status, and treatment, making them an important part of the claims process.
- A lawyer can prepare you, review findings, challenge unfair conclusions, and guide your responses to protect your claim.
What Does an Independent Medical Exam Mean in a Personal Injury Claim?
IMEs are designed to evaluate the extent of a person’s injuries and medical needs. They are a common part of the personal injury claim process. However, they differ from the treatment provided by a patient’s regular doctor. The exam is typically performed by a doctor chosen by an insurance company or employer to assess an injury rather than provide treatment. The examiner’s role is to examine the injury and prepare a report that may be used in a legal or insurance claim.
Why Insurance Companies Request an IME
Many people are confused as to why they need an IME when they already have their own physician. From the insurer’s perspective, these exams are crucial because they help evaluate injury claims, confirm medical conditions, assess the extent of any disability, and determine whether continued treatment or benefits are warranted.
What Happens During an Independent Medical Examination?
Understanding what to expect during an IME can help you feel prepared and informed. These exams typically follow a straightforward process in which the examiner asks the patient about the accident, reviews medical records, and performs a physical evaluation of the injury.
- Discussion of the accident: The examiner asks questions about how the injury occurred.
- Review of medical records: Past treatments and reports are examined.
- Physical evaluation: The examiner assesses the injury through a physical examination.
How an IME Can Affect Your Injury Claim
Although an IME is often seen as serving the insurer, it can play a key role in the outcome of a personal injury or workers’ compensation case. The findings from these exams may influence decisions about benefits, disability status, medical treatment, or settlement negotiations.
Because these results can have a significant impact on a case, it is important to speak with an attorney before and after the scheduled exam. They can answer any questions you may have about going into the exam, as well as the results.
Do You Have To Attend an IME?
How To Prepare for an Independent Medical Exam
You can feel confident and informed before, during, and after attending an IME in your personal injury case. It is essential to practice professionalism during the appointment, answer questions accurately, and be mindful that observations during the exam may influence the claim.
Document details of the examination afterward and keep copies of any paperwork completed. Each of these items serves as evidence to support your claim or push back against any attempts by insurers to minimize compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help if You Are Asked To Attend an IME
Your personal injury attorney will play a vital role in preparing you for an IME. They can help with the outcome of the exam, along with how you respond to it.
The Role of an Attorney in the IME Process
- Explain the process: Help you understand what will happen during the exam.
- Review IME findings: Carefully analyze the report for accuracy and fairness.
- Challenge unfavorable conclusions: Dispute any findings that could hurt your claim.
- Advise on responses: Guide you on how to answer questions or handle the exam professionally.
Speak With a New York Personal Injury Lawyer About Your Case
If you are the victim of a personal injury and the opposing party is requesting an IME, it is important to attend with guidance from your attorney to protect your rights and ensure your claim is fairly evaluated. Our skilled legal team at Chopra & Nocerino can help navigate your case from start to finish, seeking fair compensation for your injuries. Contact us today at (855) NYC-HURT to schedule an initial consultation.
