Independent Medical Examination: Five Painless Tips To Help You Succeed

If you were injured and need to make a personal injury claim, your insurance will most likely require you to undergo an independent medical exam (IME). Unlike your regular physician, this doctor will be only be looking at your injury and any effects it may have on your day-to-day life.

Although this appointment may seem like a regular check-up, it is not; and so it is important that you be prepared for this examination. If you haven't undergone an IME before, you can prepare yourself by following these five tips:

1. Cooperate

It may sound a little silly, but it is important that you cooperate fully during the examination. Do your best to answer every question and perform the tasks that the doctor asks you. If you cannot perform a task, simply tell the doctor. Likewise, you should be sure to mention any pain you may experience during your daily life—and any pain you may experience at the appointment.

2. List All Problems

Even though the doctor is only examining you due to your injury, it is important that you mention all of you current medical problems. If you are asked about any past injuries or medical conditions, be sure to mention them; you might also want to let the doctor know about any medications you have taken in the past.

In addition, you should bring along a copy of your medical file. If you do not have access to it, write down every medical problem you have had—even if it was 10 years ago. The doctor will be looking for your honesty, so tell them everything—no matter how small it may seem.

3. Bring a Camera

If your injury is still healing you may want to bring a camera with you. A camera can be used to document your doctor's appointment, as well as the severity of your injury at the time. Snap a few photos, print them out, and keep them handy for the entirety of your claim process.

4. Don't Go Alone

If possible, take a friend or family member with you to the appointment. During the appointment, your friend or family member can take notes about what happened, when, and how. This person can also act as a witness, should you need to prove anything about the actual appointment.

5. Get a Copy

Finally, make sure you get a full and detailed copy from the doctor about your IME appointment. Until you have it, avoid talking to any insurance adjusters. Knowing what the doctor said and why will help you should you need to negotiate.

These tips, along with a skilled personal injury attorney, will help you win your personal injury claim. If you have any questions or concerns about the filing process or doctor's appointment, talk with your lawyer, like those at Kuzyk Law; he or she can provide you all the information you need.


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