Cases involving a deliberate indifference to a need for medical care commonly order independent medical exams. If you need to provide an objective assessment of your injuries to a court, you should consult with a knowledgeable medical malpractice lawyer to ensure you get the best independent medical examination.
At Thurswell Law, our attorneys understand how to get results, and we have the experience, skill, and knowledge necessary to provide you with exceptional legal representation. We could help you understand your rights, explain the impact of an independent medical exam in a Southfield medical malpractice case, and determine whether you have a case.
What is an Independent Medical Examination?
Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) can play a pivotal role in medical malpractice cases, especially when questions arise about the extent of a patient’s injuries or the necessity of certain treatments. In Southfield, the impact of an Independent Medical Exam in a medical malpractice case often hinges on how the findings align—or conflict—with a patient’s treating physician. While an IME is supposed to provide an objective medical opinion, it is important to remember that the examining doctor is often hired by the defense and may be looking for reasons to challenge the patient’s claims. The results of an IME can influence settlement discussions, trial strategy, and even the outcome of the case, making it crucial for injured individuals and their attorneys to prepare thoroughly and know how to counter biased or inaccurate reports.
For plaintiffs, the IME is rarely just a routine appointment—it’s a strategic moment that can shape the direction of the entire case. The examiner may downplay symptoms, question causation, or suggest that a patient’s injuries are not as severe as alleged. These reports often carry weight with insurance companies and courts, so it is essential to treat them seriously. Legal teams typically prepare clients in advance, review past medical records for consistency, and, when needed, bring in their own experts to provide second opinions or rebuttal testimony.
Medical Malpractice and the National Standard of Care
Medical specialists must adhere to a national standard of care. Local general practitioners are held to a community standard of care. These distinctions are important in medical malpractice cases because a physician from a local medical center will be held to a different standard of care than a medical specialist. Understanding these distinctions will give you a more comprehensive understanding of your legal rights, the role independent medical examinations play in malpractice lawsuits, and how they may affect your Southfield case.
Some physicians may be hesitant to testify against other physicians. It may take additional time, therefore, to find medical professionals who will act as expert witnesses in a malpractice case. However, many physicians devote a part of their practice to testifying in civil lawsuits as expert witnesses, and one of our medical malpractice lawyers may be able to advise you about which medical experts might assist you in your case.
Contact a Southfield Medical Negligence Attorney To Learn How Independent Medical Exams Could Impact Your Case
You do not have to confront the challenges of a civil lawsuit alone. Medical malpractice cases often involve the testimony of multiple expert witnesses, who need months to prepare their reports for the court. You do not have to coordinate a civil lawsuit alone—our experienced attorneys are here to support you.
Our team could provide you with the resources you need to focus on your recovery. During an initial consultation, we could discuss your case, establish which viable legal claims you could assert in a civil complaint, and explain the impact of independent medical exam in a Southfield medical malpractice case. Call Thurswell Law today at (248) 460-9865 and let our experience get the results you deserve.
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