At some point, the insurance company may schedule a medical evaluation with a doctor of its choosing. This is commonly labeled an Independent Medical Exam (IME). The term is a misnomer. The examiner’s audience is the insurer, not you, and the goal is to assess (and often minimize) diagnosis, causation, and disability. Preparation helps you be accurate, confident, and credible.
Below, our friends from The Law Office of Jeffrey Weiskopf discuss what to expect and how to prepare for a so-called “independent” medical exam.
Understand The Purpose And Pace
This is not treatment and it’s usually brief. Expect a targeted interview, a short physical exam, and basic tests. The examiner will compare your statements with prior records, looking for inconsistencies more than solutions. That’s not personal; it’s the role they’ve been hired to play.
Review Your Own Medical Timeline Beforehand
Skim your first complaints, imaging results, therapy attendance, specialist notes, work status letters, and current medications. Refreshing your memory makes sure you don’t omit important facts or contradict your charts accidentally.
Answer Honestly And Briefly
Stick to facts: how the incident occurred, symptom onset and frequency, what helps and hurts, and which activities you can no longer do or now do with pain. Don’t estimate speeds, forces, or medical terms you don’t know. If a question is unclear, ask for clarification. Credibility – not performance – is what matters.
Expect Observation Outside The Exam Room
Assume you’re being watched in the parking lot and waiting area. Be your real, consistent self throughout. Avoid dramatic displays inside that don’t match how you move elsewhere.
Document The Encounter
Note start and end times, names of everyone present, and tests performed. If allowed, bring a friend to observe. Afterward, write a short summary while details are fresh. Share it with your attorney.
Keep Treating
An IME does not replace your providers. Continue recommended care and follow up on referrals. If the insurer’s report contains errors or mischaracterizations, your personal injury lawyer can respond with treating-physician statements or an independent professional opinion.
If You Feel Rushed Or Uncomfortable
Say so calmly and ask for clarification or a short break. You’re entitled to be treated with respect. Afterwards, debrief with your attorney about anything unusual. That context can be important later.
Consider Logistics
Arrive early, bring photo ID and any braces or assistive devices you actually use, and wear everyday footwear that reflects how you normally move. Bring a list of medications and allergies. If permitted, you may take notes immediately afterward in your car while details are fresh.
Know What Not To Do
Do not exaggerate pain or effort; validity tests exist and inconsistency hurts credibility. Don’t downplay either. “Toughing it out” reads as recovery. Be truthful about good days and bad days and describe averages, not outliers.
An IME Can Be Uncomfortable, But It’s Just One Data Point
Preparation doesn’t change your condition; it simply helps you communicate it accurately. That’s the goal.
If you or someone you love has been injured because of someone else’s negligence, a car accident lawyer can provide legal advice and guidance.