Independent Medical Exams

IME's or Independent Medical Examinations should not be regarded as independent. Physicians performing the examinations are likely to be called as testifying witnesses for the defense and are paid by the defense and insurance companies.

The Physical or Mental Examination is part of the legal process, a tool of discovery authorized by Civil Rule 35, not part of your client's medical care. You are entitled to have a representative present during the IME; who better than a CLNC to be the eyes and ears for the attorney, monitoring the exam and keeping the physician accountable?

Independent Medical Examination accompanied by a CLNC includes:

1. Introductory meeting with attorney and client
2. Reviewing medical records and completed clinical evaluation questionnaire from IME examiner
3. Preparing and educating the client for the scheduled IME
4. Accompanying client to IME
5. Advocating for client and attorney throughout IME
   1. Audio Taping and Written Documentation of the History (Oral) and Physical Examination
   2. Communication with Attorney throughout IME
   3. Post-IME wrap up session with Client and Attorney
6. Written Report and Audio Tape of IME

Shirley Gorman, RN, CLNC provides consulting legal nurse services to attorneys and law firms, plaintiffs and defendants, insurance companies and other organizations, in and around Fort Collins, Colorado including Greeley, Windsor, Denver, and Boulder and Southern Wyoming, including Laramie and Cheyenne.

"Certified Legal Nurse Consultants are uniquely qualified to assist attorneys with the medical aspects of a case and from any practice areas as the need arises."