FAQ

n Ontario, Independent Medical Examination (IME) providers are required to meet strict standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). These standards ensure that assessments are conducted fairly, ethically, and with the highest level of clinical expertise. To qualify, IME providers must: Hold a valid CPSO license Demonstrate relevant specialization or clinical expertise Have substantial experience in their field of practice Participate in ongoing professional development to maintain current knowledge and skills Uphold professional and ethical standards set by their governing bodies Understanding these qualifications is essential for individuals undergoing an IME, as they guarantee the integrity and accuracy of the assessment process. Clinical Experience Qualified IME providers possess extensive experience in their medical specialty, enabling them to assess health conditions effectively and provide unbiased, evidence-based opinions. Ethical Conduct IME providers are bound by strict ethical guidelines that promote impartiality, confidentiality, fairness, and professionalism. This ensures that every assessment is conducted with integrity and respect for the individual being evaluated.

Catastrophic Impairment Assessments Under the Ontario Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), the term “catastrophic” is used to classify individuals who have sustained the most severe and permanent injuries. This designation allows access to significantly enhanced benefits beyond the standard time limits applied to non-catastrophic cases. We perform catastrophic impairment assessments through a structured, multidisciplinary approach: We identify impairments as physical, psychological, or behavioral. We assign the appropriate specialists based on the specific nature of the injuries. We ensure that all opinions provided are objective, fair, and well-supported. Our team has extensive experience in delivering comprehensive catastrophic determinations. Each case is evaluated by a clinical team with the necessary expertise to provide expert opinions that withstand legal scrutiny. Our assessments are widely respected by courts and frequently referenced in litigation. We fully understand the complexities of catastrophic criteria, including stability requirements, evolving case law, and procedural nuances. When working with us, you can be confident that: Your best interests are at the forefront of every assessment Each evaluation is conducted by highly skilled and experienced assessors Our analysis is thorough, considering all prior opinions, possible scenarios, and case-specific factors We specialize in delivering comprehensive, defensible evaluations that offer clear medical opinions and objective evidence — essential for advancing your claim through litigation. Every report includes a detailed critique of all previous catastrophic assessments on file to ensure a complete and informed evaluation.

While the IME itself usually lasts between one to two hours, the overall process — including scheduling, the assessment, and report delivery — can span several weeks. Understanding these timelines is crucial for anyone involved in disability management, claims processing, or legal proceedings.

The duration of an Independent Medical Examination (IME) in Ontario can vary based on several factors. On average, the examination itself typically takes one to two hours. However, the entire IME process — from scheduling to the delivery of the final report — can extend over a few weeks. Key Factors Influencing IME Timelines: Examination Duration The in-person assessment usually lasts between one to two hours, during which the healthcare professional conducts a thorough evaluation of the individual’s condition. Scheduling Availability Coordinating the availability of both the examinee and the examiner can affect how quickly an appointment can be booked. Waiting Period Depending on demand and logistical factors, there may be a delay between scheduling and the actual examination date. Report Preparation Time After the examination, the healthcare professional requires time to review findings and compile a detailed, objective report. Report Delivery Timeline Once completed, the report is sent to the appropriate parties, which may take additional time depending on the process and channels used.

IMEs are most commonly requested by insurance companies, employers, or legal professionals seeking an independent evaluation of an individual’s medical condition in the context of a disability claim or legal matter.

In most cases, individuals are permitted to bring a support person for emotional comfort or logistical assistance during the assessment.