Independent Medical Evaluations (IME) for Injury
Forensic neuropsychology is the application of neuropsychological theory and research to address legal issues when injuries occur. Referral questions in civil litigation often involve the determination of the presence or absence of neurological and/or psychiatric disorders, related to a specific event or injury, prognosis, or treatment and defines disability status.
Common Referrals include:
- Traumatic Brain Injury or
Concussion - Fitness for Duty
- Competency Evaluations
- Personal Injury
- Disability Evaluations
- Workers Compensation
An independent neuropsychological examination, also referred to as an independent medical examination (IME) is performed by a neuropsychologist who is hired as an independent consultant by a third party, such as an insurance company, an attorney, or the court to make a determination regarding neuropsychological functioning - and potentially the effects of injury or illness.
An assessment may range from a relatively brief clinical interview to a comprehensive examination that includes extensive psychological and neuropsychological test administration.
The neuropsychologist has been hired by a third party seeking answers to specific questions related to brain-behavior relationships. Unlike a clinical evaluation, the neuropsychologist does not work for the person being examined As a result, the examination parameters, professional requirements, and delivery of report are different from that of a clinical report.