How to Prepare for a Disability IME Exam

An IME, or Independent Medical Exam, is usually requested when you have suffered an injury or illness and are seeking disability, or a settlement from an accident. The insurance company may request an independent medical exam as a way of countering any testimony your doctor may give at your hearing. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that the independent medical exam is essentially a hostile environment for you. You should not consider that the doctor will be giving you additional medical advice. You need to be well prepared and cautious while at the independent medical exam.

Things You'll Need

• Witness (friend or family member)
• Camera
• Medical records

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Instructions

• 1

  Meet with your attorney before going to the independent medical exam. Review the kinds of questions he expects the doctor to ask you and make sure you are well prepared.

• 2

  Bring your medical records and test results, if requested. Be polite and cooperative with the doctor. Do not offer long and involved answers to her questions. Answer as briefly as possible.

• 3

  Bring a witness with you, such as a friend or family member. Check the laws in your state. Some states will allow for recording of the exam without the doctor's knowledge. If so, have your witness record the entire exam.

• 4

  Schedule and attend an appointment with your doctor immediately following your independent medical exam. This provides your doctor the ability to offer an opinion of your condition that is based on the same physical symptoms the independent medical exam doctor saw.

• 5

  Request that the insurance company provide you with the independent medical exam doctor's qualifications, including how much of its practice comprises IME services and any articles the doctor has published on your particular condition.