Independent Medical Examinations
Unbiased, evidence-based evaluation of the cause, severity, suitable treatment and impact of a condition
An independent medical examination (IME) is a comprehensive, unbiased evaluation of an individual’s health status undertaken by a medical specialist. At 4cRisk, we provide a true evidence-based independent medical opinion from suitable specialists to allow referrers to make informed decisions about next steps.
Individuals may be referred for an IME in several settings by insurers, legal representatives or employers. The most common reasons for undertaking an independent assessment is to establish the cause of a condition, its severity, and the appropriate treatment. Another common reason is to determine the likelihood of any permanent impairment that may result from the condition, working with the American Guidelines for the Evaluation of Impairment.
What does an IME involve?
An IME can be conducted either in person or via a telehealth service as required. The specifics of each examination will vary, but IMEs tend to cover:
- Assessment
- Diagnosis
- Causation
- Prognosis
- Liability
- Treatment options
- Fitness for work
- Return to work plan
Following the examination, the medical examiner will produce a report based on their interview and examination of the individual, as well as additional information such as previous test results, which are generally provided by the referring party. Along with any relevant diagnoses, this report will also include recommendations on required treatment and ongoing management. The referrer will then use the information contained in this report to inform any decisions or management plans relating to the individual’s health status.
Unbiased medical opinions
An independent medical examination must be conducted by a suitably trained and qualified medical specialist who is able to provide a true and unbiased medical opinion. 4cRisk’s Dr Burke is a Certified Independent Medical Examiner (CIME), and Dr Seevnarain is a Master Certified Independent Medical Examiner (MCIME) by the American Board of Independent Medical Examiners (ABIME), which is part of the American Medical Association (AMA).
Our medical specialists also hold accreditations in AMA Guidelines to the evaluation of impairment in Versions 4, 5 and 6. In addition, they provide services to worker compensation systems across Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.
Your Questions Answered
We’ve put together the answers to some common questions about our
Independent Medical Examinations
.
An individual can be referred for an independent medical examination (IME) by an insurer, employer or legal representative in instances where a full, unbiased picture of their health status is required.
An independent medical examination (IME) may be required in several settings. Examples include as part of an insurance claim, to determine fitness for work, or to ensure that an individual receives the full social security benefits that they are entitled to.
An IME can be conducted either in person or via a telehealth service as required. The specifics of each examination will vary but, in general, IMEs tend to cover:
- Assessment
- Diagnosis
- Causation
- Prognosis
- Liability
- Treatment options
- Fitness for work
- Return to work plan
- Comprehensive report
As medical experts, we provide an unbiased, evidence-based report to the referring party. We comment only on bio-psycho-social issues that may affect an individual’s health within the scope of the letter of referral. This information is then used by the referring party to inform their decision on a suitable management plan within their own system or organisation. We do not influence outcomes, nor do we provide any specific treatment through the independent medical examination.
Not found the answer you need? Contact 4cRisk and our experienced team will be happy to help
