Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) are objective medical assessments performed for legal, insurance, or administrative purposes. Whether you’re an attorney representing a client, an insurance adjuster, or an individual navigating a workers’ compensation or disability claim, this guide explains what to expect from an IME at Garcia Family Medicine.
What an IME Is (and Isn’t)
An IME is a thorough medical evaluation performed by a physician who has NOT been involved in the patient’s prior care. The role is to provide an objective assessment of:
- The current medical condition
- Causation (is the condition related to the alleged incident or work exposure?)
- Maximum medical improvement (MMI) status
- Permanent impairment ratings if applicable
- Work restrictions or accommodations
- Prognosis and future medical care needs
An IME is NOT treatment. The IME physician doesn’t establish a patient relationship and doesn’t provide medical care during or after the evaluation.
When IMEs Are Used
- Workers’ compensation claims — often requested by the employer’s insurance carrier or by the worker’s attorney for an independent opinion
- Personal injury cases — auto accidents, slip-and-falls, premises liability
- Long-term disability claims — to support or contest disability determinations
- Social Security Disability evaluations
- Legal proceedings involving medical questions of fact
What Happens at the Evaluation
The length of an IME depends on the issues presented and the scope of the referral. An evaluation may include:
- Detailed review of submitted medical records, imaging, and prior reports
- Comprehensive interview with the patient covering the relevant medical history, current symptoms, and functional limitations
- Physical examination focused on the body systems at issue
- Range of motion, strength, and neurological testing as appropriate
- Review of work or activity limitations
The Report
Report timing depends on the complexity of the case, the volume of records, and the questions presented. A case-specific estimate is provided after the referral materials are reviewed. The report may include:
- Summary of records reviewed
- History as obtained from the patient
- Physical examination findings
- Diagnostic impressions
- Causation analysis with supporting reasoning
- MMI determination if applicable
- Impairment ratings when requested and clinically appropriate
- Recommended restrictions and prognosis
- Answers to specific questions posed by the requesting party
Dr. Tess’s Qualifications
Dr. Theresa Garcia, MD, FAAFP, DABOM is board-certified in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine with over 20 years of clinical experience. She has performed IMEs across a range of musculoskeletal, occupational, and chronic medical conditions, and prepares detailed reports that address the referral questions with clear clinical reasoning.
Scheduling and Cost
IME pricing depends on the complexity of the case, records review volume, and report requirements. Contact us for a quote on your specific case.
Preparing a referral packet? Use our IME referral checklist for Missouri to organize questions, records, job details, and deadlines.
To schedule an IME, call (816) 330-7575 or see our Independent Medical Evaluations service page. We accept referrals from attorneys, insurance carriers, employers, and individuals across Missouri.