Ask REOH about return to work, causation, appropriateness of treatment, impairment ratings, independent medical evaluations, pre-existing conditions, peer review, legal support, record reviews, and quick file reviews.
Independent Medical Evaluations
Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) for workers’ compensation and personal injury claims are examinations performed by a physician not involved in the injured person’s care for the purpose of clarifying medical and job issues. The IME may evaluate issues regarding causation, diagnosis, treatment, return to work, and impairment. IMEs involve review of medical records and other claim related information, an extensive visit with the physician to determine relevant history, and a comprehensive report. In some cases, additional medical or environmental testing may be requested in order to address specific IME questions.
What is the purpose of an IME?
IMEs are typically requested by workers’ compensation insurance companies, governmental agencies, or attorneys. IMEs are a component of workers’ compensation statutes, although the specifics vary by state (MCA 39-17-605 (2019). IMEs are also completed for personal injury cases and other legal reasons. IMEs are unbiased, impartial, and vary in complexity dependent upon the specifics of the case and issues involved. After the IME, the examiner completes an organized and comprehensive report to address questions raised by the party who requested the evaluation. The IME report is sent to the requesting party and that same party reimburses the examiner. Payment for the report is not contingent upon any specific conclusion resulting from the examiner.
Why is an IME considered independent?
The IME physician is not a treating doctor and can objectively evaluate past treatment or proposed treatment recommendations (i.e., the IME physician’s recommendations are not contingent on future care or treatment of the individual). Reimbursement for an IME is not contingent upon any specific conclusions from the examination. For example, conclusions from a REOH IME may confirm or refute issues regarding the relationship of the injury or illness to work. REOH physicians do not represent the injured individual or the party requesting the appointment.