BIG TIP–always request any intake forms to be provided to you before going into see any IME or rehab provider!!!
In writing-with proof of request
- Prepare for the evaluation in advance. Know your medical history and be consistent
when telling your history to the IME physician. - Make an appointment to discuss your medical history with your attorney. Let your
physician know you have been asked to submit to an IME, and make an appointment to
be examined by him/her on the same day. - Take someone with you to the exam who can speak for you and take accurate notes of
the procedures. Take pictures of any swelling or obvious physical marks in the IME
physician’s office. - Do not attempt to exaggerate symptoms or over react when touched or prodded.
- Be cognizant of the fact the IME physician is neither your advocate or medical doctor.
Do not ask medical questions about your treatment, and answer only the questions you
are asked. Do not contribute information beyond the scope of the examination. In other
words, during the IME exam, don’t discuss the problems of your life. - Send the insurance company a request for credentials and other information about the
IME physician. Also, request a copy of the report be sent to you at the same time it is sent to the Insurance Company-offer to pay for postage and copying fees–do this in advance of the appt. - Be mindful you may be surveilled by an insurance investigator. Wear braces, use canes,
or other therapeutic devices as instructed by your physician. Limit your activities on the
day before, the day of and the day after your IME examination. Look for strangers on
your street, or neighborhood. - Ask for a copy of the in-house physician’s report on the IME. The insurance company
may or may not give it to you, but ask anyway. - Stay calm, and if the IME physician hurts you, say so. No physician likes to have a
patient carried out of his office on a stretcher. If the IME physician manipulates you, or
physically hurts you to the point of pain, ask for an ambulance to be called.