What is a Psychiatric IME?
Independent psychiatric examinations are comprehensive
clinical evaluations performed by one or more highly qualified
experts. There is no treating physician/patient relationship
established when an IME is performed.
In addition to the documentation of the evaluation, the
final IME report will include a thorough review of records,
the results of testing performed, completed collateral
contacts, and responses to questions. IME services are
utilized by a variety of sources, including claim organizations,
attorneys, and other individuals involved in the administration
of disability claims.
When should a Psychiatric IME be considered?
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Whenever an unbiased expert assessment
of a claimant's diagnosis, status and treatment plan
is indicated.
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To address inconsistencies between
the claimant's reported level of impairment and other
information, such as the expected result of treatment,
or the activities engaged in by the claimant.
Who performs a PDC Psychiatric IME?
PDC selects independent psychiatrists, psychologists and neuropsychologists
who are experts in their field of specialization and who
have demonstrated the ability to assimilate factual data
in the development of their opinions. These experts have
extensive forensic experience and typically have served
as expert witnesses.
The PDC IME Network database contains the names of thousands
of qualified experts, including many who are bilingual,
throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
The database is constantly updated and expanded.
The PDC clinical staff carefully credentials all IME
experts, reviewing their curriculum vitae, board certifications,
areas of specialization, licenses, malpractice
coverage, administrative requirements and fees, and a
work product sample.
Why use PDC's Psychiatric IME services?
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PDC confirms referrals within two
business days and is committed to scheduling an appointment
within 7 to 10 business days of the request.
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A PDC IME Coordinator maintains regular
communication with the referral source regarding the
status of research and scheduling.
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The PDC clinical staff carefully
credentials the IME expert and makes recommendations
specific to each case.
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Once an IME expert is selected, a
PDC staff member communicates with that expert to rule
out any conflicts of interest.
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A PDC IME Coordinator schedules the
IME appointments and, in writing, provides the IME
expert's appointment schedule, fees, cancellation policy
and a copy of the curriculum vitae.
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As necessary, the PDC IME Coordinator
will make transportation arrangements and reserve meeting
accomodations when travel is required for the IME.
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PDC will reschedule the IME appointment,
one time, at no additional cost.
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PDC's clinical staff can help formulate
case specific IME questions and, if requested, review
and critique the final IME report.
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IME experts are expected to complete
their final report within 7 business days of the last
IME activity for each case.
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The cost associated with arranging a PDC Psychiatric
IME is competitively priced. Fees are based on a flat
rate that varies, depending on whether one or more doctors
are involved in the IME.
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To ensure the independent nature
of the evaluation, the IME expert submits the final
report and invoice for services directly to the referral
source.
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