Between medical visits, endless paperwork, and the constant worry about lost wages, many Illinois workers find themselves tangled in the complexities of the state’s workers’ compensation system. One major part of that process is the Independent Medical Examination, or IME. This single exam can have a huge impact on your claim and the benefits you receive.

What Exactly Is an IME?

An Independent Medical Examination is when a doctor, selected by your employer or their insurance company, evaluates your injury and medical condition. They’ll review your medical history, examine your injury, and then submit a detailed report. In Illinois, employers must pay for the transportation costs to and from this exam. The IME doctor’s job is to determine how serious your injury is, confirm whether it was work-related, offer treatment recommendations, and outline any work restrictions or a potential date for maximum medical improvement (MMI).

While the name “independent” sounds neutral, the IME doctor is chosen by your employer or their insurance provider. That means the results may not always be in your favor. Under Section 12 of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, employers have the right to pick the doctor, and sometimes these evaluations are used to minimize or deny claims.

How an IME Can Affect Your Workers’ Comp Claim

The IME report carries significant weight in your case. It can influence whether your claim continues, how much compensation you receive, and even whether your benefits are temporarily suspended. If you fail to attend the exam, benefits can be stopped until it’s completed. Once the report is submitted, it helps determine if you’ll keep receiving payments for your injury.

Every moment during the IME counts. Even casual remarks like saying “I’m feeling better” can be twisted to downplay your injury. Likewise, exaggerating symptoms can hurt your credibility. The best approach is to stay calm, honest, and factual.

Step-by-Step: The IME Process in Illinois

1. Request for IME: The process starts when your employer’s insurance company or attorney requests the exam, usually in writing.
2. Choosing the Examiner: The requesting party selects the doctor, who must be qualified and not previously involved in your care.
3. Scheduling the Exam: You’ll receive a notice with the time, date, and place of your appointment.
4. Medical Record Review: The examiner reviews your medical files before the exam to understand your condition and history.
5. The Examination: During your visit, the doctor will physically examine you, ask questions about your injury, and may run additional tests.
6. Medical Report: Afterward, they’ll prepare a written report with their findings, opinions, and recommendations.
7. Legal Proceedings: This report often becomes key evidence in your workers’ compensation case, helping determine your eligibility and the level of benefits.

When IME Results Go Against You

If your IME report doesn’t accurately reflect your condition or causes your benefits to be reduced or cut off, you still have options. However, challenging the findings is not something you should handle alone. The IME system can be complex and intimidating, and you’ll need a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney to guide you through it.

Our firm handles all types of workplace injury cases – from broken bones and back injuries to repetitive stress conditions, burns, amputations, and even illnesses caused by toxic exposure. We know how insurance companies operate, and we fight to make sure you get every dollar you deserve.

If you or a loved one was injured on the job, don’t wait. You don’t have to go through this alone. Call (312) 726-5567 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.