After an accident, the insurance company may ask—or require—you to see a doctor of their choosing. It might sound like a routine part of the claims process, even a helpful step to move things along.

But what they don’t tell you is this: that doctor doesn’t work for you. They’re not there to focus on your well-being. They’re evaluating you for the insurance company’s benefit—and that can create a serious conflict of interest.

These doctors, often hired to perform what’s known as an Independent Medical Examination (IME), are frequently used to cast doubt on the severity of your injuries. They may minimize your condition, suggest that your pain is unrelated to the accident, or imply you’re recovering faster than your own doctor says.

Understanding the real role of the insurance company’s doctor is essential to protecting your rights and your claim.

What Is an Independent Medical Examination?

An IME is a medical evaluation requested by the insurance company, usually conducted by a physician they select. These exams are often framed as impartial or routine—but in many cases, the goal is to reduce or deny your claim. The doctor performing the IME is typically paid by the insurer, and their findings can have a significant influence on your settlement.

While the term “independent” implies neutrality, these doctors often work with insurance companies on a regular basis. That means they know what the insurer is looking for and may write their reports in a way that favors the company’s interests—not yours. Their opinion might be used to challenge your treating physician’s diagnosis or to argue that your injuries are exaggerated.

Why Insurance Companies Use Their Own Doctors

Insurers want to limit their financial exposure, and one way they do that is by questioning the extent of your injuries. If your primary doctor recommends extended treatment or long-term care, the insurance company may want a second opinion—one that just happens to align with their goals. An IME can provide the justification they need to cut off benefits or deny coverage altogether.

Injury victims are often caught off guard when the IME doctor downplays their condition or disputes their need for ongoing care. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you know you’re still in pain. It’s important to remember that the insurance company is not a neutral party in your recovery, and the doctor they choose isn’t either.

You Have the Right to Be Cautious

While you may be required to attend an IME if you’re pursuing compensation through an insurance policy or legal claim, you’re not required to accept everything the insurance doctor says. You also have the right to continue seeing your own physician and to submit your own medical evidence.

Being cautious means understanding what the exam is for, what questions you might be asked, and how the report could be used against you. It’s not about being combative—it’s about being informed. Having a legal representative guide you through this process ensures that your rights are protected and that nothing is used unfairly to discredit your experience.

What to Expect at the Exam

If you’re scheduled for an independent medical examination (IME), it’s important to understand that this visit serves the insurance company’s interests—not your recovery. The goal is to assess your condition for legal or claim purposes, not to provide treatment. Here’s what you can expect during the exam:

• Questions About Your Medical History – The doctor will ask about past injuries, preexisting conditions, and previous treatments related to your current issue.

• Details of the Incident – You’ll likely be asked how the injury occurred and what symptoms you’ve had since.

• Brief Physical Evaluation – The exam is usually shorter than typical doctor visits and focuses on documenting your physical condition, range of motion, or limitations.

• Review of Medical Records – The examining physician may request prior medical records, test results, or imaging to support their report.

• No Treatment Provided – You won’t receive advice, prescriptions, or follow-up care—this visit is strictly observational.

• Objective but Not Always Neutral – While the exam is supposed to be impartial, remember that the doctor is hired by the insurance company.

• Tone May Feel Clinical or Cold – Don’t be alarmed if the interaction feels impersonal; the focus is on documentation, not patient care.

• Honesty Is Key – Be truthful and consistent in your answers. Avoid exaggerating or minimizing symptoms, as accuracy will help protect your credibility.

How IME Reports Can Affect Your Claim

The report produced after an IME can carry significant weight in your case, especially if the insurance company uses it to challenge your medical expenses or argue that you’ve recovered enough to return to work. These reports may also be cited to justify denying additional treatment or limiting your settlement.

That’s why it’s so important to have your own doctor’s records and testimony ready. If your treating physician has seen you multiple times, tracked your recovery, and recommended continued care, their opinion often holds more credibility—especially when supported with detailed documentation. A strong legal strategy will use both medical perspectives to show the full truth.

You Don’t Have to Go Through It Alone

Dealing with insurance doctors and medical exams can be intimidating, especially when your recovery and financial stability are on the line. But you don’t have to navigate this process by yourself. A personal injury attorney can help you prepare for the IME, understand your rights, and ensure your medical needs are represented accurately.

Working with a team like Anderson Blanda & Saltzman Personal Injury Lawyers gives you access to experienced legal advocates who know how insurance companies operate. They can review the IME report, challenge any inconsistencies, and make sure your voice is heard throughout the claims process. When the other side has resources working to minimize your case, you need professionals on your side protecting it.

Protecting Yourself Starts with Knowledge

If you’re scheduled for an IME, don’t panic—but do prepare. Take notes after the exam about what was asked, how long it lasted, and anything that felt concerning. Be honest during the evaluation, but don’t volunteer extra information. Stick to the facts, and remember that the doctor is not there to build a relationship or offer support—they’re there for the insurance company.

Keeping your own records and working closely with your primary physician ensures that your real recovery is being tracked. The more documentation you have from sources who know you best, the harder it becomes for one brief exam to override the facts of your case.

You Deserve a Fair Assessment

Injury claims should be based on truth—not tactics. Your pain, your limitations, and your recovery timeline are not up for debate just because a doctor hired by the insurance company says otherwise. You deserve care that reflects your real needs and compensation that reflects your real losses.

Don’t let one examination derail your entire case. By staying informed, being prepared, and seeking experienced legal guidance, you can make sure your voice is heard—even when the insurance company would rather silence it.