The demand for Orthopedic Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) is high in Ventura County, especially in Oxnard. An Orthopedic IME is performed by a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who uses his/her expertise to evaluate the physical condition of an individual, generally to assess the severity, cause and treatment needed for an injury sustained outside of the workplace.

Since the vast majority of injury claims are related to the body’s musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgeons are the most sought after type of physician to perform IMEs. California Medical Evaluators works with a number of orthopedic experts on medical-legal cases and can provide insight into the IME process.

What conditions do Orthopedic Surgeons evaluate?

Orthopedic surgeons focus on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, ligaments, joints, nerves, tendons and muscles. Orthopedic IMEs are usually requested to evaluate injuries to the spine, hands, feet, knees, shoulders, hips and elbows. Ortho IMEs may also be asked to assess preexisting or degenerative changes to the lumbar, cervical or thoracic spine.

What happens during an Ortho IME?

An Ortho IME is performed in a doctor’s office with a medical assistant present. The orthopedic surgeon will assess the individual’s condition based on the criteria set forth in the case. California Medical Evaluators has over 80 locations available all over California, so the location of the exam will be decided depending on which office is most convenient for the doctor and the individual being evaluated.

Who requests an Orthopedic IME?

An Ortho IME is generally ordered by a claims adjuster or case manager at an insurance company for liability/disability claims that are expected to be settled out of court. For instance, if someone is injured in a car accident, he/she could sue the other person’s auto insurance company for pain and suffering, temporary lost income, or permanent lost income depending on the severity of the injury. If the case might go to trial, an Ortho IME will typically be requested by a defense lawyer who may work in-house for the insurance company or may be contracted out.

How can one find the right orthopedic surgeon?

California Medical Evaluators (CME) works with many doctors in Ventura County (Oxnard) and all across California who have extensive experience performing Orthopedic IMEs. You can request an orthopedic IME online or call us at 888.963.8933.