An IME is an Independent Medical Examination.
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An IME is a comprehensive medical examination performed by an independent physician or a non-treating physician at the request of a 3rd party for non-treatment purposes.
An IME is a Non-Treating Medical Examination.
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The IME implies a very different patient physician relationship as the physician only provides information to the requesting 3rd party.
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There is no obligation on the physician to discuss treatment, provide medications, and or arrange for referrals or follow up.
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The physician’s only obligation is to provide the requested information to the referring 3rd party with the consent of the person being examined.
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The requesting 3rd party provides factual material and medical information about the person to be examined.
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The examining physician answers specific questions asked by the 3rd party.
The purpose of an IME is to:
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determine, confirm or clarify the diagnosis.
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determine the extent of impairment.
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determine the prognosis.
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determine if the individual has reached maximal medical improvement.
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determine suitability to return to work.
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determine the need for additional therapy or treatment.
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determine causation of impairment.
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determine attribution of injury to symptoms and impairment.
Types of IME’s
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Insurance IME (Non Tort)
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Medical Legal IME (Tort)
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3rd Party IME (Non Tort and Non Insurance)