Independent Medical Evaluations

PRACTICE FOCUS

Independent Medical Evaluations

An independent medical evaluation involves an appraisal of your existing medical condition and treatment by a physician who is not your primary caregiver. This examining doctor is not affiliated with the entity requesting the evaluation and has no involvement in your case management.

The doctor conducting your independent medical evaluation is skilled at easing anxiety. During the assessment, you’ll be asked about your medical history and general life questions. Your answers will be respected, and it’s fine to admit it when you’re unsure.

We Offer traditional (in-person) Independent Medical Evaluation (IME):

We are on the Medical Impairment Rater (MIR) registry for the Tennessee Bureau of Worker’s Compensation (BWC), so I get called upon periodically to conduct an IME for a Worker’s Comp case that is under dispute.  Both parties would agree on a physician that they both feel comfortable with, usually based on our qualification and location.  Both parties proceed to send the pertinent medical records to me, as well as the agreed upon payment at least a few weeks prior to the exam date.  The IME exams are performed at our office location at McKenzie, TN, and the reports are sent back to the BWC who makes them available to both parties and their lawyers.  This same scenario would happen for all other types of IMEs that people request, including post-accident personal injury, disability, etc. We charge the same amount for all IMEs, providing a uniform cost for everyone.

 

We also Offer Telehealth Independent Medical Evaluation (IME):

Just like a traditional IME, a telehealth IME evaluation places the individual being assessed at the center of care, as long as both parties agree on this mode of exam. Instead of in-person meetings, both parties can connect from anywhere using various technologies, including video, voice, or online platforms.

However, the success of a telehealth appointment depends not only on technology but also on the expertise of our team members and physician. We prioritize smart triaging and tailor the assessment method to each person objectively and thoughtfully.

Each telehealth IME is customized by the physician to meet the unique requirements of the individual and their assessment environment, ensuring a high-quality and robust report.

Preparing For Your Ime Independent Medical Evaluation:

Our Telehealth medical evaluations are independent medical examinations conducted via videoconferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet, etc. These assessments serve as an alternative to in-person evaluations but may not be suitable for all cases.
The organization requesting your examination, along with the independent doctor, will assess the feasibility of a telehealth video call appointment for your specific situation.

Our examiner may switch to a face-to-face consultation if they deem it necessary during the video call. Even if your initial independent medical assessment is conducted via telehealth, a physical examination in person may be required at a later date.

The parties should allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for the Telehealth Independent medical assessments.

To prepare for a telehealth assessment, ensure the following:

  • Find a quiet, well-lit room with minimal background noise.
  • Ensure no one else is present without the examiner’s agreement.
  • Use a laptop or desktop computer with a camera and microphone (mobile phones are not suitable).
  • Complete and submit your pre-consultation forms before the examination.
  • Wear loose clothing that can be easily removed if necessary.

Types of Independent Medical Evaluation

Work-Related Injury Evaluations

Conduct assessments to determine the extent of injuries related to workplace incidents, providing impartial evaluations to aid in legal and insurance processes.

Disability Evaluation

Evaluate the impact of disabilities on an individual's ability to work, providing objective assessments for insurance claims, or legal proceedings.

Medical-Legal Evaluations:

Independent medical evaluations provide unbiased opinions, aiding in legal decision-making for personal injury claims and legal disputes.

Fitness-for-Duty Evaluations

Assess an individual's physical and mental fitness for specific job duties, ensuring workplace safety and compliance with job requirements.

Second Opinion Consultations

Offer expert medical opinions to validate or provide an alternative perspective on a treatment plan, assisting individuals in making informed healthcare decisions.

Impairment Rating Assessments

Evaluate the extent of impairment resulting from injury or illness, providing standardized ratings to assist in insurance claims, and disability determinations.

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Independent Medical Evaluations - Frequently Asked Questions

The IME doctor needs patient background information, medical records, diagnostics, and job details, and conducts a medical history review and physical examination.

IME doctors are neutral evaluators; treating doctors provide care. IMEs are requested for additional information, legal compliance, or claim resolution.

An Independent Medical Examination (IME) provides an unbiased medical assessment to clarify a person’s health status, diagnosis, or treatment needs—especially in cases involving insurance, workers compensation, disability, or legal claims.

In medical terms, an IME is a thorough evaluation performed by a qualified, neutral, non-treating physician to assess an individual’s medical condition, diagnosis, or disability status—typically for insurance, employment, or legal purposes.