Independent medical examination
Dr Hana Patel - GP (general practitioner)
Created on: 11-13-2012
Updated on: 10-20-2023
Edited by: Conor Lynch
What is an independent medical examination?
During an independent medical examination, a medical expert evaluates and gives a verdict on the state of health of a person who has suffered physical or psychological damage. The medical expert must have an unbiased and objective approach to the examination and the final verdict regarding the cause, the extent of the injury/illness, and the length of treatment that is necessary.
Evaluations are often conducted when legally proceeding in the following aspects:
- Compensation
- Repairs
- Disability or dependency concessions
What does it involve?
The medical evaluation will be carried out by a doctor who can optimally assess the person's state of health, injuries, damages, or specific illness suffered. It is important that the study be clear, concise, and reasoned. The tests performed will vary according to the specific case of each person.
Why is it done?
There are different situations in which it may be necessary to receive an independent medical examination, among which are:
- Judicial, criminal, social, or civil proceedings
- Medical malpractice
- Traffic or workplace accidents
- Administrative situations: in cases of disability
- Insurance policy: patients of policies that claim compensation for injuries or illness