A review of internet sites regarding independent medical examinations: implications for clinical neuropsychological practitioners.
Independent medical examinations (IMEs) are evaluations requested by third parties as a means of obtaining information regarding the level of treatment an individual requires as the result of an accident or injury. A number of Web sites have been created with the purpose of advising individuals on how to prepare for IMEs. A thorough search of the Internet, using several different search terms and search engines, revealed 7 such Web sites. These sites contain detailed recommendations of the steps an individual should take before, during, and following an IME. While the majority of recommendations are not likely to affect the validity of a neuropsychological IME, some contain information that may have a negative impact on evaluation outcomes. Details from each site and their implications for clinical neuropsychological practitioners are highlighted.
Horwitz
Julie E
JE
Department of Psychology, Social Sciences 369, 1400 Washington Avenue, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA. juliehorwitz77@hotmail.com
McCaffrey
Robert J
RJ
D015982:Bias; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005104:Expert Testimony / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007345:Insurance Claim Review / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D020407:Internet / Q000941:ethics; D033241:Lawyers / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D014481:United States