What Is An Independent Medical Examination?
An independent medical examination is a medical evaluation requested by an opposing party, often an insurer or defense lawyer, to assess injuries, symptoms, treatment, and their possible connection to an accident. The examining doctor does not serve as the injured person’s treating provider, and the examination may produce evidence used in a claim or lawsuit.
Quick Facts About Independent Medical Examination
Category
Personal injury evidence
Used for
Assessing accident-related injuries
Common confusion
It is not routine treatment
Also called
IME, Defense Medical Examination
Often discussed with
Brain Injury Claims
Key Takeaways About Independent Medical Examination
- The examining doctor is not your treating physician.
- The report may address injury cause, symptoms, and treatment.
- An independent exam is not the same as ongoing medical care.
How Independent Medical Examination Works
Independent Medical Examination is arranged by a party that wants an outside medical opinion about an injury claim. The examining physician reviews relevant records, asks about symptoms and daily limits, and may perform a focused physical or neurological evaluation. The doctor then prepares findings for the requesting party.
Related glossary terms: Medical Records, Traumatic Brain Injury, Expert Witness.
The examination can address whether the reported condition fits the accident history, whether earlier conditions affect the analysis, and whether care appears related to the claimed injury. For a brain injury claim, the review may focus on memory changes, concentration problems, headaches, and other reported effects. The examination does not replace treatment from the injured person’s own medical providers.
From the Atlanta Auto Law team
When we review an independent medical examination, we compare its findings with medical records, treatment notes, symptom reports, and the accident account. We look for unsupported assumptions, omitted history, and conclusions that do not address the claimed brain injury. Our team also prepares the client for the examination process without coaching medical answers.
Independent Medical Examination in Practice: A Real-World Example
After an Atlanta driver reports memory problems and headaches following a collision, the insurer requests an independent medical examination. The examining doctor reviews available records and gives an opinion about whether the reported symptoms relate to the crash.
Related Services
Related Terms
Medical Records
Medical Records are written or electronic documents that describe a patient’s care, condition, testing, treatment, and…
Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury is damage to brain function or structure caused by an external force, such…
Expert Witness
An Expert Witness is a qualified professional who gives specialized opinions about facts or issues that…
Discovery
Discovery is the formal information-gathering process in a medical malpractice claim. Each side requests relevant records…
Atlanta Auto Law
Have Questions About Independent Medical Examination?
Contact Atlanta Auto Law for practical guidance on Independent Medical Examination and related personal injury attorney work in Atlanta.