Independent Forensic Neuropsychological Evaluation
An Independent Forensic Neuropsychological Evaluation , also referred to as an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) or a Comprehensive Medical Evaluation (CME) differs from a Clinical Neuropsychological Evaluation in several ways. Namely, the Neuropsychologist is retained as an independent, objective contractor by a third party. These can include:
- The Court – by court order
- An Insurance company or Worker's Compensation Carrier
- Attorney (Plaintiff or Defense)
An IME is usually requested to determine the presence or absence of neurocogitive and/or psychiatric disorders and to assess their relationship to a specific event, accident, or injury and to assist with treatment planning. An IME may be requested to determine Disability Status.
The Neuropsychologist attempts to answer specific referral questions related to brain-behavior relationships. The Neuropsychologist’s role is to “conduct a proper examination (Ethical Standard 9) and practices only within the bounds of professional competence (Ethical Standard 2), consistent with the American Psychological Association Ethics Code. (American Psychological Association, 2002)
