An independent medical examination (“IME”) is requested by an insurance company when it claims additional information or clarification regarding a person's disability is needed. It is an in-person examination with a doctor of the insurance company’s choosing.
Do I have to attend an IME if the insurance company requests it?
The short answer is yes. Most disability insurance policies have a provision that requires a claimant comply with independent medical examination and/or testing. Failure to comply with the request could result in a denial of benefits.
What can I expect during an IME?
Most claimants report that the examination is brief. The doctor may do a quick physical examination and ask some questions, depending on your medical condition. The doctor will likely come across as being supportive of your disability and sympathetic to your condition - don’t be fooled. IME doctors are on the side of the insurance company.
How do I prepare for an IME?
- Bring any medications you take
- Bring any information relevant to your disability
- Bring someone with you
More than likely, the doctor will have a copy of your medical records and should have reviewed them, although that is not always the case.
Keep in mind, anything you say or do during the examination will be included in the doctor’s report. It is best to answer only the question that is asked - do not offer information.
Do I have to pay for an IME?
No. The doctor is paid very well by the insurance company for an IME.
How Dabdoub Law Firm Can Help
We deal with IME’s often. We know which doctors insurance companies like to use and what to expect from that doctor. We push back on the need for the IME and ask tough questions about the necessity of it. We also challenge the report generated, where we can.
We have had success in cases with an unfavorable IME. It does not have to be the end-all-be-all to a disability case.
If you or someone you know has received correspondence from their disability insurance carrier requesting they attend an IME, call us today. We can get involved and help you through the process.