It is important to choose the right specialist when it comes to independent medical examinations especially when it comes to legal and administrative proceedings. This includes disability determinations, workers’ compensation cases, personal injury claims, civil litigation etc.
An independent medical evaluation will help verify the existence of the medical condition and its severity. The examining healthcare provider will assess the symptoms of the individual, medical history and physical findings so that the nature of the impairment can be determined. The functional capacity of the individual will be diagnosed. This is their ability to perform daily living activities and work related activities. This assessment will help the healthcare providers to understand the physical and mental limitations and how this condition affects their ability to take part in other activities. The findings and opinions of the specialist will be valuable evidence in legal and administrative proceedings so that an informed decision can be made. When selecting a specialist, you have to consider their qualifications and credentials in their ability to effectively conduct the examination. They will include board certification in their medical speciality and license to practice medicine in the relevant jurisdiction. You also need to check if there is additional training or certifications of the specialistrelevant to the examination.
The specialist should have expertise
And experience in the specific area of medicine that related to the medical condition of the individual. If the claimant has suffered a musculoskeletal injury, then you will need to look for a specialist in orthopaedic surgery or physical medicine. The specialist should be impartial throughout the examination process. This means avoiding conflicts of interest so that integrity of the findings is not compromised. You have to choose an examiner that doesn’t have a previous relationship with the individual that is being examined so that an unbiased assessment of the medical condition can be provided. Consider the speciality and subspecialty focus of the examiner as this should align with the medical condition of the individual and their specific issues. An individual with a neurological condition should be examined by a specialist in neurology or neurosurgery. You need to consider the reputation of the examiner and their track record in their field. You can research their professional background along with any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims to their name. You can look for recommendations from trusted sources such as legal professionals and colleagues.
The specialist should have strong communication skills
As they should be able to explain complex medical concepts clearly and effectively even if the individual doesn’t have a medical background. This will help build rapport with the individual that is being examined and they will also clearly understand the purpose of the examination and the process it entails. The specialist should also be readily available to carry out the examination within a reasonable timeline. Accessibility is an important factor and the individual being examined may have certain accommodations or needs to be addressed. Once you identify candidates, you have to carefully review their qualifications, credentials and experience to check whether they meet the requirements for carrying out the examination.
