How to Prepare for an Independent Medical Exam (IME) in a Maryland Workers’ Comp Case

Sean Dobbs | Apr 01 2026 16:00

Quick Summary: An Independent Medical Exam (IME) is a medical evaluation scheduled by the insurance company in a Maryland workers’ comp case. It matters because the IME doctor’s report can influence your benefits, treatment approvals, and settlement value. The best way to prepare is to stay factual, be consistent about your symptoms, and clearly explain how your injury affects your daily life. Dobbs Law, LLC helps injured workers across Maryland navigate insurance doctor exams and protect their rights.

What Is an Independent Medical Exam in Maryland Workers’ Comp?

An IME is an examination performed by a doctor hired by the insurance company—not your treating doctor. The purpose is for the insurer to get a medical opinion about your injury, the cause, the need for treatment, your work restrictions, or whether you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).

The exam often plays a big role in:

  • Whether your wage loss checks continue
  • Whether medical treatment gets approved or denied
  • Whether the insurer pushes for settlement
  • Disputes about surgery, diagnostic tests, or physical therapy

Learn more here: IME in Maryland Workers’ Comp

Why the IME Matters

Even though the IME doctor is supposed to be “independent,” they are being paid by the insurance company. Their report can be used to stop treatment, reduce disability benefits, or challenge your doctor's opinions. That’s why preparing for the exam—and knowing what to expect—can make a major difference in the outcome of your claim.

What Happens Before the IME?

Before the exam, the insurance company will schedule the appointment and send you a notice. You must attend. Missing the IME can result in suspended benefits.

Here’s what to do beforehand:

  • Review your symptoms: Be clear on what hurts, when it hurts, and how it affects your job and daily life.
  • Stay consistent: Your description should match what you’ve told your treating doctors, the adjuster, and any prior examiners.
  • Do not exaggerate or minimize: Just be truthful and specific.
  • Bring a short list: Note your symptoms, medications, and any limitations so you don’t forget details during the exam.

What Happens During the IME?

The appointment is usually brief—often 10–20 minutes. The doctor may:

  • Ask how the injury happened
  • Review your medical history
  • Perform a physical exam
  • Ask when your symptoms worsen or improve
  • Check your movement, strength, or reflexes

Your job during the exam:

  • Answer questions honestly and directly
  • Describe pain levels accurately
  • Show your real range of motion—don’t overdo or underdo it
  • If something hurts, say so
  • If you need to stop a test, politely explain why

Important: The doctor is not there to treat you. They are there to evaluate you for the insurance company.

Mistakes to Avoid at Your IME

  • Don’t guess or make assumptions: If you don’t know, say “I’m not sure.”
  • Don’t minimize pain “to be tough”: Many workers do this, and it hurts their case.
  • Don’t exaggerate symptoms: IME doctors look for inconsistencies.
  • Don’t talk about unrelated medical issues unless asked directly.
  • Don’t argue with the doctor: Stay calm and professional.

What Happens After the IME?

After the exam, the IME doctor writes a report that is sent to the insurance company. You will not receive it directly. The report may say:

  • You don’t need more treatment
  • You can return to work full duty
  • Your injury is unrelated to work
  • You’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
  • You need different or limited work restrictions

If this happens, the insurer may try to:

  • Stop your checks (Temporary Total Disability benefits)
  • Deny surgery, therapy, or medication
  • Push for a settlement
  • Dispute your doctor’s recommendations

When disputes arise, workers often face delays or denials in treatment. Learn more about these issues here: Medical Treatment Disputes

How an IME Can Affect Settlement

If the IME doctor says your injury is mild or has healed, the insurance company may offer a lower settlement—or pressure you to settle early. If the IME agrees with your doctor, it may strengthen your case for compensation.

More on settlements here: Workers’ Comp Settlements

When to Call a Maryland Workers’ Comp Lawyer

If you have an upcoming IME, received a negative IME report, or you’re worried your benefits might stop, legal help can make a major difference. Dobbs Law, LLC  represents injured workers throughout Maryland—construction workers, warehouse employees, healthcare staff, public safety personnel, and others facing pressure from insurance companies.

Facing an IME? We Can Help.

If you’re preparing for an IME or feel the insurer is using the exam to block your treatment or cut your benefits, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Dobbs Law, LLC helps injured workers protect themselves before, during, and after insurance doctor exams.

Contact us for a free consultation today.