Why do insurance companies request an IME?

IMEC assists individuals in receiving impartial, comprehensive, and credible medical evaluations, and finding an independent medical examiner near me helps ensure the process remains accurate and stress-free. From scheduling the appointment with a physician and specialty to forwarding the end report to all parties involved, IMEC takes all of the stress out of this process. Be forthcoming and honest when answering questions about your symptoms during an exam; exaggerating or downplaying can significantly harm your case.

Reasons to Have an IME

There can be various reasons for an independent medical examination (IME), including suspicions over the validity of an injury claim or concerns regarding its severity. Many states allow insurance companies to compel an IME if sufficient justification exists. An independent medical examiner (IME doctor) typically reviews an individual's medical records, such as treatment history and test results, to ascertain any injuries suffered and their possible repercussions. They may also conduct interviews with injured parties or witnesses regarding injuries sustained and their effects. Cooperating fully with an IME process is crucial for an injured party's wellbeing and should include dressing comfortably and arriving 15 minutes early for their examination, along with copies of medical records or any relevant documents. Furthermore, consulting their attorney before taking part can give valuable advice regarding how best to conduct themselves during the examination and which topics or issues are best left out of discussion during an IME examination.

Insurance Companies

In most states, when an accident occurs and people use no-fault insurance to cover medical expenses, most policies include an "acceptance clause." To ensure medical services are reasonable and necessary, insurance companies often request an independent medical examination (IME). If patients fail to attend this evaluation, payments for past and future services could be denied by their insurers. Medical examiners serve another important purpose besides an IME: they offer impartial evaluations in cases of fault and injuries that have become contentious. Our experts are equipped to offer impartial opinions in such instances. If you have been scheduled for an IME evaluation, make sure that you arrive early with all relevant paperwork ready; expect questions about your injury, how it occurred and any pain/symptoms.

Attorneys

Interim Medical Exams (Times) offer physicians who perform them an extremely lucrative business opportunity. Insurance companies pay them, giving them every incentive possible to find any way possible to deny or reduce benefits. Many doctors dedicate entire medical practices solely to conducting Times. If you find yourself attending an IME, it is advisable to retain an experienced disability insurance attorney as they will explain the process and help navigate any challenges that may arise. Arrive early for your exam to allow yourself plenty of time to relax before entering the examination room. Bring along a friend or family member as an observer; your examiner may allow it, but having someone by your side for support and safety purposes can only benefit both of you. If a physician makes derogatory comments regarding your limitations or injuries, be sure to document these and use those notes during cross-examination later.

Conclusion

Searching for an independent medical examiner near me is an important step for anyone involved in an injury or insurance claim. Times help determine the validity and severity of injuries while providing insurance companies and legal teams with professional medical opinions. Because these examinations can directly affect benefits and claim outcomes, injured individuals should cooperate fully, prepare properly, and seek legal guidance when needed. Choosing a qualified and impartial examiner, arriving prepared, and understanding your rights can help protect your interests throughout the IME process.