IME in a New York No-Fault Case: What to Expect

Got a letter from your no-fault insurance company scheduling an “IME”? It’s a normal part of many car accident claims, and it’s not a reason to panic. Here’s what an IME is, what to bring, what to say, and how to protect your care afterward.

What Is an IME?

An IME, or Independent Medical Examination, is an exam the no-fault insurance company schedules after a car accident claim is opened.

It isn’t a treatment visit, and the doctor who performs it won’t become your treating provider. The insurance company uses the exam to review your injuries, the treatment you’ve had so far, and whether more care is medically necessary.

Why Does the Insurance Company Schedule an IME?

To decide whether your injuries are related to the accident and whether treatment should continue. An IME can look at any accident-related care, such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, pain management, orthopedic care, or imaging.

The IME doctor may examine you, review your records, and then send a report to the insurance company.

Is the IME Really Independent?

Despite the name, the exam is usually arranged and paid for by the insurance company. That doesn’t automatically make it unfair, but it helps to understand the difference: your treating doctor focuses on your recovery, while the IME doctor evaluates your condition for the insurance company.

Do I Have to Go, and What If I Miss It?

Take IME appointments seriously. If you miss a properly scheduled IME, the insurance company may deny future no-fault benefits, which can stop payment for accident-related care such as chiropractic, physical therapy, pain management, and orthopedic treatment.

If you can’t make it, contact the insurance company, your attorney if you have one, and your treatment office as soon as possible to reschedule. Don’t just skip it.

What Should I Bring?

• Photo ID
• Your IME appointment letter
• Your claim number, if you have it
• A list of your current symptoms
• A list of the providers treating you
• Any braces, supports, or assistive devices you use
• Medical records, only if the letter asks for them

Wear comfortable clothes that let you move easily, since the exam often includes bending and range-of-motion tests. Arrive early, and keep proof that you attended, such as a copy of the sign-in sheet or a note of when you arrived and left.

You don’t have to go alone. You can bring someone with you, such as a family member or friend, and you can bring your own translator if you need one.

What Should I Say During the IME?

Be honest, clear, and consistent. Explain how the accident happened, which parts of your body were hurt, your current symptoms, and how the injuries affect your daily life, such as walking, standing, sitting, bending, lifting, sleeping, working, or driving.

Don’t exaggerate your symptoms, and don’t downplay them either. Describe your condition as accurately as you can.

What Happens During the IME?

Expect questions about the accident, your symptoms, your treatment, and your medical history. The doctor may do a physical exam, range-of-motion testing, orthopedic or neurological tests, or other basic evaluations.

The exam is often shorter than a regular treatment visit, and the IME doctor usually won’t treat you.

What Happens After the IME?

The IME doctor sends a report to the insurance company. The insurer may keep paying for your treatment, deny certain services, ask for more information, or issue a no-fault denial.

If you receive a denial, tell your treatment office and your attorney right away.

Got an IME letter? Bring it to your next visit, or call Brooklyn (718) 522-3400 or Queens (347) 774-2777.

Can I Continue Treatment After an IME Denial?

Often, yes, but it depends on the denial. Read it carefully: some denials apply only to certain types of treatment, certain providers, or care after a specific date.

A denial can also be challenged. Your provider or your attorney may dispute it, and your treatment office can talk with you about other ways to keep your care going in the meantime.

For a fuller picture of how coverage works, see our guide to no-fault and workers’ comp.

Practical Tips

• Don’t ignore IME letters.
• Confirm the date, time, and location.
• Tell your treatment office, and your attorney if you have one, when an IME is scheduled.
• Reschedule early if there’s a conflict.
• Keep proof that you attended.
• Right after the exam, write down how long it lasted, what the doctor examined, and what you were asked. These notes can help if the IME report is later used to deny treatment.
• Be honest and specific about your symptoms.
• Keep following your treatment plan unless your provider advises otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does IME stand for?

IME stands for Independent Medical Examination.

Is the IME doctor my treating doctor?

No. The IME doctor examines you for the insurance company and doesn’t replace your treating doctor.

Can no-fault stop paying after an IME?

Yes. The insurance company may deny future benefits if the IME report says more treatment isn’t medically necessary, or if you miss a properly scheduled IME.

Can I bring someone with me to the IME?

Yes. You can bring someone with you, such as a family member or friend, and you can bring your own translator if you need one.

What if I can’t attend my IME?

Contact the insurance company, your attorney, and your treatment office as soon as possible to reschedule.

Should I tell my chiropractor or physical therapy office about the IME?

Yes. Your treatment office should know when your IME is scheduled and whether a denial is issued afterward.

How Rockaway Chiropractic Can Help

We treat car accident patients under no-fault at our Brooklyn and Queens Village offices. If you get an IME notice, bring it to your next visit or call us right away. We’ll help coordinate your care, keep your symptoms documented, and walk you through the next steps.

New patient? Request an appointment. No referral needed.

This information is for general educational purposes only and isn’t legal advice. For questions about your claim, a missed IME, or a no-fault denial, speak with your attorney or insurance representative.