The independent medical examination — also known as “IME” — can be an intimidating part of the long-term disability claim process. Individuals who file a long-term disability claim are required to participate in an IME at the request of the insurance company. IME doctors are frequently summoned by insurance companies and the results may lean in their favor — and in many cases leads to a claim denial. IME doctors are extremely knowledgeable about long-term disability claims, which is why it’s important to know what to expect.
What is an IME?
An independent medical examination is an essential part of applying for your long-term disability benefits. If you have incurred an injury or illness and cannot work, you have a right to these payments to help you sustain your daily living expenses and medical bills. While you may want to enlist your primary care physician for an IME they are not authorized to conduct your exam. It’s important to follow long-term disability guidelines when it comes to your medical evaluation. Having an experienced attorney assist with your long-term disability claim especially for individuals who are not well-versed in complicated ERISA laws.
How to Prepare for an IME
It is essential to prepare for your independent medical examination to increase your chance of a favorable decision. There are particular questions that the IME physician will ask you. Here are some tips on how what to do at your IME appointment:
- Make sure to prepare for the IME by arriving at the correct time for the appointment.
- Bring along a trusted relative or friend to take notes during your exam and record how long the exam lasted, what questions the doctor asked as well as what tests were performed.
- Obtain a copy of your IME report.
- Review the IME report for any information that may be incorrect and notify your disability attorney.
Being prepared with the above can help move your long-term disability claim along smoothly.
Handling Erroneous Errors in an IME Report
Having an attorney to help you with your long-term disability claim is vital for increasing your chances of a favorable outcome. Errors or misinformation in a doctor’s IME report could cost you your long-term disability benefits. An experienced long-term disability attorney knows what to look for and how to swiftly correct them.
Providing your long-term disability attorney with the following information can ensure your claim is not held up by missing information or documents that are needed to file your claim:
- Your original medical information
- Medical images
- Diagnostic test results
- The full IME report
If you need assistance with your long-term disability claim and the insurance company has requested you to attend an IME, having an attorney guide you through the process can make all the difference. Don't’ take on the insurance company alone. Contact Dabdoub Law Firm at (800) 969-0488 today to learn more about how we can help you receive the long-term disability benefits that you deserve.