Independent Medical Examinations (IME): How to Prepare, What to Expect, and Protect Your Rights
- Reza Yassi
- Sep 24, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) are medical evaluations requested by insurance companies in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. The IME doctor is not your treating physician and does not provide care. What you say, how you behave, and how the exam is conducted can directly affect your benefits or settlement. Preparing properly, answering honestly, and understanding your rights helps protect your claim.
Independent Medical Examinations (IME)
An Independent Medical Examination, commonly called an IME, is one of the most important moments in an injury or workers’ compensation claim. Insurance companies often rely heavily on the IME report when deciding whether to approve treatment, reduce benefits, or challenge the value of your case.
Understanding how IMEs work and how to approach them can make a real difference in the outcome of your claim.
What Is an Independent Medical Examination?
An Independent Medical Examination is a medical evaluation performed by a doctor who is not involved in your treatment. This doctor is selected and paid by the insurance company or opposing party.
The purpose of an IME is to:
Assess the nature and severity of your injuries
Determine whether your symptoms are related to the accident
Evaluate whether ongoing treatment is necessary
Provide an opinion that may be used to approve, limit, or deny benefits
Despite the name, IMEs are not truly independent. The doctor’s role is to provide an opinion for the insurance company, not to diagnose or treat you.
Why Insurance Companies Request IMEs
Insurance carriers request IMEs to limit risk and control costs. From their perspective, an IME helps them decide:
Whether your injuries are legitimate
Whether treatment should continue
Whether you can return to work
How much your claim may be worth
For injured individuals, this makes the IME a critical moment that can influence the direction of the case.
Can You Refuse an IME?
In most personal injury and workers’ compensation cases, attending an IME is required. Refusing to attend can lead to serious consequences, including:
Suspension of workers’ compensation benefits
Delays in your case
Dismissal of certain claims
If you have concerns about an IME request, speak with a personal injury lawyer before taking any action.
How to Prepare for an IME
Preparing for an IME is about accuracy, consistency, and awareness.
Review Your Medical History
Before the exam, refresh your memory about:
When and how the injury occurred
Your symptoms and limitations
The treatment you have received
Any prior injuries or conditions
Be honest. Inconsistencies are often used to question credibility.
Understand the Doctor’s Role
The IME doctor is not there to help you recover. Their job is to evaluate and report. Keep your answers factual and focused on your medical condition.
Bring Required Items
Bring identification and any documents your attorney recommends. Do not bring unnecessary records unless advised.
What to Expect During an IME
IME exams are often brief and structured.
You Are Observed the Entire Time
Observation starts when you arrive. The doctor and staff may note how you walk, sit, stand, and move. Act naturally and consistently with your symptoms.
Questions Will Be Direct
Expect questions about:
Pain levels
Daily activities
Work limitations
Prior injuries
Answer honestly. Avoid exaggeration and avoid minimizing symptoms.
Physical Tests May Be Performed
The doctor may ask you to perform movements or tests. Do not push through pain. If something hurts, say so.
Common IME Tactics to Be Aware Of
Some situations to watch for:
Casual conversation used to gather information
Leading questions that suggest certain answers
Tests designed to check consistency rather than diagnose
Stay polite, calm, and focused on your condition.
Protecting Your Rights
Taking proactive steps can help safeguard your interests:
Limit Social Media Activity: Avoid posting about your injuries, daily activities, or the IME on social media platforms. Insurance companies may monitor your accounts to find inconsistencies.
Follow Medical Advice: Continue attending appointments and following the treatment plan prescribed by your primary doctor. This demonstrates your commitment to recovery.
Stay Informed: Keep open communication with your attorney and ask questions if you're uncertain about any aspect of your case.
How an IME Can Affect Your Settlement
An IME can directly influence how much compensation you receive.
If the IME doctor reports that:
Your injuries are minor
Your condition is unrelated to the accident
You no longer need treatment
The insurance company may:
Reduce settlement offers
Deny future medical care
Challenge lost wages or disability claims
This is why preparation and legal guidance matter.
What to Do After the IME
Write Everything Down
As soon as possible, document:
How long the exam lasted
What tests were performed
What questions were asked
Anything unusual or concerning
Speak With Your Attorney
Share your notes with your attorney immediately. If the IME report is inaccurate or biased, it can be challenged using medical evidence and testimony from your treating doctors.
Protecting Your Rights After an IME
Follow your current treatment plan
Avoid posting about your injury on social media
Keep all medical appointments
Stay consistent in how you describe symptoms
These steps help support your credibility.
Fquently Asked Questions
What should I wear to an IME?
Wear comfortable clothing that reflects your normal daily condition. Do not dress in a way that exaggerates or hides symptoms.
Can I bring someone with me?
Rules vary by case. Ask your attorney before bringing anyone.
Does the IME doctor provide treatment?
No. IME doctors only evaluate and report.
What if the IME report is wrong?
IME reports can be challenged through legal and medical evidence.
Conclusion
Independent Medical Examinations play a powerful role in personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. Understanding what an IME is, how to prepare, and how it can affect your settlement helps you protect your rights and your case.
If you have questions about an upcoming IME or concerns about how it may impact your claim, speaking with an experienced law firm like Yassi Law PC can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
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