An orthopedic surgeon plays a crucial role in an independent medical evaluation (IME). During an IME, an orthopedic surgeon is typically tasked with assessing a patient’s musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Their role involves several key aspects:

1. Medical Examination: The orthopedic surgeon conducts a comprehensive physical examination of the patient to assess their range of motion, strength, stability, and any signs of injury or impairment.
2. Review of Medical Records: They review the patient’s medical history, including previous injuries, treatments, surgeries, and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
3. Evaluation of Functional Capacity: The orthopedic surgeon assesses the patient’s functional capacity, considering their ability to perform activities of daily living, work-related tasks, and any limitations or disabilities resulting from their musculoskeletal condition.
4. Diagnostic Recommendations: Based on their examination and review of medical records, the orthopedic surgeon may recommend further diagnostic tests or imaging studies to clarify the nature and extent of the patient’s condition.
5. Impairment Rating: Orthopedic surgeons may also provide an impairment rating, which quantifies the degree of impairment resulting from the musculoskeletal condition. This rating is often used for legal or insurance purposes to determine compensation or disability benefits.
6. Objective Opinion: One of the primary purposes of an IME is to obtain an objective opinion regarding the patient’s condition, prognosis, and treatment options. Orthopedic surgeons provide their professional expertise and independent assessment to help stakeholders, such as insurers, employers, or legal parties, make informed decisions.

Overall, the role of an orthopedic surgeon in an independent medical evaluation is to provide an unbiased assessment of the patient’s musculoskeletal health, helping to clarify diagnoses, treatment options, and potential implications for the individual’s functional abilities and overall well-being.

The training of an independent medical examiner typically involves several key components:

1. Medical Education: Independent medical examiners are typically physicians who have completed medical school and obtained a medical degree (MD or DO).
2. Residency Training: Following medical school, aspiring independent medical examiners undergo residency training in a relevant specialty, such as orthopedic surgery, neurology, psychiatry, or another field related to the type of evaluations they will conduct.
3. Board Certification: Many independent medical examiners pursue board certification in their specialty through organizations such as the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) or the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). Board certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and competency in their field.
4. Continuing Medical Education (CME): Independent medical examiners engage in ongoing continuing medical education to stay updated on advancements in their specialty, new diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities, and legal or ethical considerations related to medical evaluations.
5. Training in IME Procedures: Independent medical examiners receive training specific to conducting IMEs, which may include courses or workshops covering topics such as proper examination techniques, documentation standards, legal and ethical guidelines, and communication skills.
6. Experience and Mentorship: Aspiring independent medical examiners often gain experience under the guidance of experienced practitioners through mentorship programs or by working alongside established examiners to learn best practices and gain practical skills.

Overall, the training of an independent medical examiner involves a combination of formal medical education, specialized residency training, board certification, ongoing continuing education, and specific training in IME procedures to ensure they have the necessary expertise and qualifications to conduct thorough, objective, and impartial medical evaluations.

Shaneka Newton was born in raised in Smyrna, Ga where she graduated from Campbel High School. She is a mother of two daughters and one son. She joined Peachtree orthopedics in 2017 in the scheduling department. She has worked at the front desk and medical records as well. In 2020 she was promoted to Administrative Assistant where she became Proficient in Workers Compensation and Personal Injury. She is now the Personal Injury Admin Lead and Administrative Assistant to 3 Doctors including Dr. Ben Barden.

For assistance with Independent Medical Evaluations and Scheduling, please contact:
Kimberly Mott
kmott@pocatlanta.com
Tel: 404-355-0743 ext. 1778