What Is an Insurance Company Doctor or “IME”?
One question I get all the time from clients is this:
“What is an insurance company doctor?”
Sometimes it comes up after someone gets a letter in the mail that says they need to go to an IME, which stands for Independent Medical Exam. That sounds harmless, even fair, but the word “independent” is where a lot of people get misled.
IMEs Are Not Independent the Way You Think
An IME is not a doctor chosen by you. It’s not a doctor chosen by your lawyer. And despite the name, it’s not truly independent in the way most people assume.
These doctors are hired and paid by the insurance company.
Their job is to examine you, review your medical records, and give an opinion about your injuries and treatment. On paper, that might sound reasonable. In reality, it often works very differently.
What These Exams Usually Look Like
Most IMEs are quick. Sometimes shockingly quick.
The doctor may see you for just a few minutes, ask a few basic questions, touch your neck, back, or shoulder, and then send you on your way. After that short visit, they write a report that can have a huge impact on your case.
And here’s the key part people need to understand.
These Doctors Work for Insurance Companies
For many IME doctors, 90 to 95 percent of their business comes from insurance companies. That’s how they make their living.
Because of that, it’s not surprising that their opinions often line up with what the insurance company wants to hear. Things like:
- You don’t need any more treatment
- Your injuries aren’t that serious
- Your care is too expensive
- You should have taken a different treatment path
Those opinions are then used to deny care, cut off treatment, or reduce the value of your claim.
Why This Matters for Your Case
An IME report can be used against you. It can be used to argue that you’re not really hurt, that you’re exaggerating, or that your doctor is doing too much.
That’s why going to an IME without understanding what it is, or without legal guidance, can be risky.
Talk to a Lawyer Before You Go
I always tell clients this: don’t go to an IME without talking to your lawyer first.
These exams are not neutral. They are paid for by the insurance industry, and their opinions often reflect that. Having someone explain what to expect and how to protect yourself can make a big difference.
If you’ve been injured and an insurance company is telling you to see their doctor, get advice before you go.
In pain? Call Shane at 980-999-9999.
