Independent Expert Medical Exams

An Independent medical examination (IME) is an evaluation that is performed by a physician who has not been previously involved in the patient’s care or treatment.  This evaluation is typically requested by an attorney or insurance carrier to determine the cause, extent and appropriateness of medical treatment, liability for the cost of the treatment, whether the individual has reached a maximum level of benefit from treatment and, if so, whether any permanent impairment remains after the treatment.An Impairment Rating may also be requested as a part of the IME. This rating provides information regarding the patient’s level of permanent disability as a result of the injury.  This rating is a percentage and can refer to the patient’s entire body or to the specific body part affected, depending upon the degree of disability that has occurred.