Independent Medical Evaluations
Objective, Thorough, Timely Medical Assessments
What Is an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME)?
An Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) is a comprehensive medical assessment conducted by an impartial physician who has no prior relationship with the patient being evaluated.
Purpose of an IME:
IMEs provide objective medical opinions for:
- Workers’ compensation claims (injury severity, work-relatedness, treatment appropriateness)
- Disability determinations (Social Security, long-term disability, short-term disability)
- Personal injury litigation (causation, damages, future medical needs)
- Employment fitness evaluations (return-to-work assessments, job accommodation needs)
- Insurance claim disputes (treatment necessity, maximum medical improvement)
- Third-party medical opinions (second opinions for claims or disputes)
Key Characteristics:
- Independent: The evaluating physician has no treating relationship with the examinee
- Objective: Assessment based solely on medical evidence and examination findings
- Comprehensive: Thorough review of medical records and physical examination
- Documented: Detailed written report summarizing findings and opinions
- Unbiased: Opinion based on medical facts, not advocacy for either party
An IME is NOT treatment—it is an evaluation to provide medical opinion on specific questions posed by the requesting party.
Board-Certified Physician with Extensive Experience
Dr. Tess Garcia brings over 20 years of medical experience and board certification in Family Medicine to every Independent Medical Evaluation.
Qualifications
- Board-Certified: American Board of Family Medicine
- Medical Degree: Medical College of Virginia
- Residency Training: Truman Lakewood Family Medicine Residency
- Active Medical License: Missouri State Board of Registration
- 20+ Years Practice: Comprehensive primary care and medical evaluations
- Additional Certification: Board-Certified in Obesity Medicine
IME Expertise:
Dr. Tess provides objective medical opinions on:
- Musculoskeletal injuries and conditions
- Occupational injuries and illnesses
- Neurological conditions affecting function
- Chronic pain and pain management
- Medical disability assessments
- Fitness for duty evaluations
- Maximum medical improvement determinations
- Treatment appropriateness and necessity
- Causation and work-relatedness
- Functional capacity and limitations
Professional Approach
Dr. Tess conducts IMEs with professionalism, thoroughness, and objectivity. Her medical opinions are based on:
- Complete medical record review
- Comprehensive physical examination
- Current medical literature and standards of care
- Answers to specific questions posed by requesting party
Her reports are clear, well-organized, and provide the medical information needed for informed decision-making.
Independent Medical Evaluation Services We Offer
Choose the evaluation type that best matches the referral question. Each IME is tailored to the records, examination, and specific opinions requested.
Workers' Compensation IMEs
Evaluates work-relatedness, treatment appropriateness, maximum medical improvement, permanent restrictions, impairment, and return-to-work capacity.
Disability Evaluations
Assesses functional limitations and work capacity for short-term, long-term, private, state, or Social Security disability matters.
Personal Injury IMEs
Addresses causation, injury extent, pre-existing conditions, permanency, damages, and anticipated medical needs in personal-injury matters.
Fitness for Duty Evaluations
Evaluates whether an employee can safely perform essential job duties and identifies appropriate restrictions or accommodations.
Second Opinion IMEs
Provides an independent review of diagnosis, treatment recommendations, procedures, and reasonable alternatives.
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) Determinations
Determines whether the examinee has reached maximum medical improvement and identifies ongoing care, permanency, restrictions, and limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Independent Medical Evaluations (IME) Questions Answered
Q: Do I have to attend the IME?
A: Attendance requirements are set by the requesting party, the applicable process or legal counsel. If an in-person examination is scheduled, attendance allows the physician to complete the requested clinical assessment. Questions about legal obligations should be directed to counsel or the requesting party.
Q: Can I bring someone with me?
A: It depends on the circumstances. If the person you’re bringing can help answer questions during the evaluation—such as a spouse or caregiver who has relevant knowledge about your medical history or condition—their presence is welcome. Dr. Tess will determine if having someone accompany you is appropriate based on the nature of the IME and what information is needed.
Q: Can I record the examination?
A: No. Audio or video recording is not permitted during the IME.
Q: Will I be examined while undressed?
A: You may need to undress to your undergarments for a musculoskeletal examination, and a gown will be provided for your comfort. It’s best to wear clothing that is easy to remove. The extent of the physical exam will be determined after Dr. Tess takes your medical history and understands the specific nature of your case. She will explain what the examination will involve before proceeding.
Q: Will Dr. Tess prescribe me medication or treatment?
A: No. An IME is an evaluation only, not treatment. Dr. Tess will not prescribe medications, provide treatment, or become your treating physician.
Q: How long will the examination take?
A: Most Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) take 90 minutes to 2 hours. This allows Dr. Tess sufficient time to conduct a complete and detailed medical history along with a thorough physical examination to provide an accurate and comprehensive assessment.
Q: Will I receive a copy of the report?
A: The report is sent to the requesting party. You may receive a copy through your attorney, claims representative, or employer. Ask the requesting party about obtaining a copy.
Q: What if I disagree with the IME findings?
A: You have the right to discuss any concerns about the IME findings with your attorney or claims representative. You may be entitled to request your own independent medical evaluation or seek a second opinion. It’s important to remember that the IME serves as evidence in your case but is not the sole determining factor in the final outcome.
Q: Should I bring my attorney to the IME?
A: No. Attorneys do not attend the physical examination. However, your attorney can advise you before the IME and review the report afterward.
Q: What is your report turnaround time?
A: The turnaround time for an IME report depends on the volume of medical records that must be reviewed both before your physical examination and during the report writing process. Cases with extensive medical documentation naturally require more time for thorough review and analysis. Dr. Tess can provide you with a more specific timeline once she assesses the scope of your case and the amount of records involved.
Q: Can Dr. Tess provide deposition or trial testimony?
A: Yes, Dr. Tess is available to provide deposition and trial testimony when needed. Separate hourly fees apply for these services, and advance notice and scheduling are required. Please contact our office to discuss availability and fees for legal testimony.
Q: What if additional records become available after the IME?
A: This depends on the stage of your case—for example, whether a ruling has already been made. You should discuss this situation with your attorney or claims representative. If the timing allows for an addendum to the IME to be accepted, Dr. Tess can review the supplemental records and provide an updated report. There will be a separate fee for this additional review and supplemental report.
Q: Do you perform Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)?
A: Your physical examination will include a functional assessment as part of the IME. However, formal Functional Capacity Evaluations require specialized physical therapy or occupational therapy protocols that are beyond the scope of an IME. If a formal FCE is needed for your case, your attorney or claims representative can refer you to an appropriate therapist who specializes in these comprehensive evaluations.
Q: What geographic area do you serve?
A: Our office is located in Blue Springs, Missouri, in Eastern Jackson County. We serve the Kansas City metropolitan area, Jackson County, and surrounding Missouri counties. Out-of-area examinations are possible if the patient is willing to travel to our office for the appointment. IME examinations cannot be conducted via telemedicine and must be performed in person.
Q: Can the IME be conducted via telemedicine?
A: No, the IME requires an in-person physical examination. This is actually in your favor—Dr. Tess needs to see you and perform a hands-on physical assessment to gather the most accurate and complete information for your evaluation. A thorough, objective IME cannot be properly conducted remotely.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Our cancellation policy depends on the type of appointment:
Q: What information is included in an IME report?
A: Yes. Dr. Tess’s reports are thorough, well-documented, and based on objective medical evidence. She is available for deposition and trial testimony as needed.
Ready to Experience Healthcare the Way It Should Be?
Work with an experienced, board-certified physician for a clear and objective medical evaluation.
Request IME Information
For attorneys, claims professionals, employers, insurers and agencies. The standard IME fee is $2,500. Submit contact information only; our team will provide a secure next step for referral materials.
Privacy: Do not include patient names, diagnoses, claim numbers, medical records or other sensitive medical information. This form is not for emergencies. Call 911 for an emergency.