Key Takeaways
- An independent medical examination (IME) is a one-time evaluation by a doctor who is not treating you, designed to answer specific questions about an injury.
- IMEs are most often requested for workers' compensation claims, personal injury cases, and disability assessments by an employer, insurer, or attorney.
- The examiner reviews your medical records, performs a focused physical exam, and writes a report on the cause of the injury, the treatment needed, and your ability to work.
- In Illinois workers' compensation cases, the employer pays for an employer-requested exam, including travel costs and lost wages.
- Dr. Mark Yaffe is an IME specialist for hand and upper extremity cases serving Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove, and Elk Grove Village, IL, and you can request an appointment to schedule an objective evaluation.
What Is an Independent Medical Examination?
An independent medical examination, often called an IME, is a medical evaluation done by a physician who is not part of your ongoing care. The word 'independent' means the examiner is there to evaluate, not to treat.
The goal is a clear, objective answer to specific medical questions. Those questions might be about what caused an injury, how serious it is, or whether more treatment is needed.
Dr. Mark Yaffe provides independent medical examinations for hand and upper extremity cases. That includes injuries and conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder.
Why Was I Asked to Get an IME?
Being asked to attend an IME can feel confusing, especially if you already have a doctor. In most cases, a third party needs an objective medical opinion to make a decision about a claim or case.
Common reasons an IME is requested include:
- Clarifying the cause and extent of an injury
- Deciding whether recommended treatment is necessary and appropriate
- Estimating how long recovery may take
- Understanding how the injury affects your ability to work
- Supporting a workers' compensation, personal injury, or disability decision
An IME is not a sign that someone doubts you. It is simply a way to gather an unbiased medical opinion.
Who Typically Orders an IME?
IMEs are usually ordered by someone other than the patient. According to Dr. Yaffe's IME service page, his reports help attorneys, insurance companies, and other parties make informed decisions.
| Who Orders the IME | Typical Reason |
|---|---|
| Employer or workers' compensation insurer | Confirm the nature, extent, and expected length of a work injury |
| Attorney in a personal injury case | Get an objective opinion on the cause and extent of an injury |
| Disability reviewer or insurer | Assess physical limits and ability to return to work |
Each situation has different goals, but the exam itself follows a similar process.
How Do IME Workers' Compensation Cases Work in Illinois?
In Illinois, employer-requested exams in IME workers' compensation cases are covered by Section 12 of the Workers' Compensation Act. Here is what the law says, based on the Illinois Compiled Statutes:
- An employee who is entitled to disability payments must attend an exam if the employer requests one.
- The employer pays for the exam, and the doctor is chosen by the employer.
- The exam must be at a time and place reasonably convenient for the employee.
- The employer must cover travel expenses and meals, and reimburse wages lost because of the exam.
- The employee may have a qualified medical practitioner present at the exam, at the employee's own expense.
- Refusing or obstructing the exam can temporarily suspend compensation payments.
The Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission handbook also explains that the employer's doctor must give the examiner's report to both parties, no later than 48 hours before an arbitration hearing.
This is general information, not legal advice. Questions about your rights in a specific case are best directed to an attorney.
What Happens During an IME With Dr. Yaffe?
Dr. Yaffe's approach to IMEs has several parts. Each one helps build a complete, evidence-based picture of the injury.
- Medical records review. Dr. Yaffe studies your records, imaging, and treatment history.
- Focused physical exam. The exam centers on the injured area, such as the hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder.
- Additional testing when needed. Extra diagnostic tests may be used to clarify findings.
- A written report. The report explains his findings and opinions in clear, detailed language.
What Questions Does an IME Report Answer?
According to Dr. Yaffe's IME service page, the report can address several key questions:
- What is the specific diagnosis?
- What caused the injury, and how extensive is it?
- Is the treatment given or recommended necessary and appropriate?
- Has the person reached maximum medical improvement (MMI)?
- Is there any remaining permanent partial impairment (PPI), and what restrictions apply?
- How does the injury affect functional capacity and the ability to return to work?
MMI means the condition has healed or improved as much as it is expected to. PPI means a lasting loss of function that remains after healing.
Why Choose an IME Specialist for Hand and Upper Extremity Cases?
Hand and upper extremity injuries involve complex anatomy. Small structures like tendons, nerves, and tiny bones all work together, so a specialist's eye matters.
Dr. Yaffe is double board-certified in orthopedic surgery and hand surgery. He treats conditions of the hand and wrist, elbow, and shoulder, and he also provides workers' compensation and medical legal services. His practice states that his IME evaluations are objective, regardless of who makes the referral.
Request an IME With Dr. Mark Yaffe in Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove, or Elk Grove Village
An independent medical examination gives everyone involved a clear, objective view of an injury. Dr. Yaffe combines hand and upper extremity expertise with detailed, evidence-based reporting.
To schedule an IME with a trusted IME specialist, request an appointment with Dr. Mark Yaffe at his Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove, or Elk Grove Village, IL office today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an independent medical examination?
An independent medical examination is a one-time evaluation by a doctor who is not treating you. The examiner reviews records, performs a focused exam, and writes a report answering specific questions about an injury, such as its cause, extent, and effect on work.
Do I have to attend an IME?
In Illinois workers' compensation cases, an employee entitled to disability payments must attend an employer-requested exam. Refusing can temporarily suspend compensation payments. For questions about a specific case, speak with an attorney.
Who pays for an IME in a workers' compensation case?
Under Illinois law, the employer pays for an employer-requested exam. The employer must also cover travel and meal expenses and reimburse wages lost because of the exam.
Will the IME doctor treat my injury?
No. The role of an IME examiner is evaluation only. Dr. Yaffe's goal is to provide an objective opinion, so the exam is separate from your ongoing treatment with your own doctor.
How do I find an IME specialist in Chicago for hand and upper extremity injuries?
Dr. Mark Yaffe is a double board-certified orthopedic and hand surgeon who performs IMEs for hand and upper extremity cases. He serves Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove, and Elk Grove Village, IL.
