Independent medical examinations are third-party medical assessments used to determine the cause and extent of an individual’s injuries. These assessments take into account the patient’s documented medical history; social history including personal, occupational, and educational; physical examination; and an administration of questionnaires for pain and patient’s perception of disability.

Medical findings are documented in a thorough report outlining the doctor’s opinion on causation, diagnosis and prognosis for recovery and return to work. The report summarizes the treatments to date; provides recommendations for future treatment or rehabilitation; and denotes the impact on current and future occupational, social, and personal life.

Who may request an Independent Medical Examination?

• Lawyers

• Insurance companies

• Union representatives

• WorkSafe BC

Who conducts this service?
Independent medical examinations are conducted by a trained physician who has not been involved in the claimant’s care.

Hours involved?
Independent Medical Examinations take approximately two hours to complete.  

Who pays for the service?
The requesting agency usually covers the cost of the assessment.