ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on Independent Medical Evaluator (IME). Different terminology is used throughout the country. When using IME, the chapter includes all the different associated terms, Agreed Medical Evaluator, Qualified Medical Evaluator, and so on. The challenges facing IMEs could be daunting unless the IME is knowledgeable about International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). ICD-10 is designed to clarify, not complicate, services. However, the IME is ultimately responsible for ensuring the correct coding for the patient's case, and thus must be very knowledgeable of ICD-10 coding. The dilemma that IMEs face is that they cannot rely on other doctors coding the case correctly, which therefore could lead to unintended consequences for the patient. The IME also has to stay up to date with any case rulings, and so on, which occur in regard to ICD-10, to ensure accurate coding. The issue that arises for Worker's Compensation and Personal Injury is that the coding is more complex and at risk of increased chance of error.
