Independent Medical Examinations (IME) Best Practices
Before, During & After the IME
A full lifecycle approach to IMEs in the workers’ compensation system — from preparation through claim resolution.
Also included with all
ATEC subscriptions
The IME Is More Than a Single Appointment
An independent medical examination doesn’t begin when the claimant walks in the door — and it doesn’t end when they walk out. The quality of an IME is determined through a continuum of preparation, execution, and application.
This course, developed by Dr. Jeffrey Westpheling MD MPH of Probity Medical Services, LLC, draws on decades of clinical and IME experience to guide participants through every phase of the process. Whether you’re an adjuster ordering an IME, a nurse case manager coordinating records, or a defense professional relying on findings, this course will sharpen your ability to get defensible, meaningful results.
The principle is simple: garbage in, garbage out. This course makes sure you know how to put the right things in — and how to use what comes out.
A Three-Phase Framework for IME Excellence
Most IME training focuses on the examination itself. This course covers the full picture.
Before the IME
The foundation of a defensible IME is laid before the claimant ever arrives. Learn when to order an IME, how to select the right examiner, what records to compile, and how to craft a clear, neutral cover letter that sets the stage for accurate findings.
- → Independence and objectivity are foundational
- → Timing significantly impacts value and risk
- → Preparation determines quality of outcomes
- → Choosing the right examiner is critical
- → Clear cover letters drive better results
During the IME
The examination itself requires a disciplined, professional approach. This phase covers how to evaluate claimant consistency, distinguish symptom magnification from malingering, and build defensible medical opinions through objective observation.
- → Setting expectations shapes the entire IME
- → Consistency is the central lens of evaluation
- → Not all exaggeration is intentional deception
- → Observation extends beyond the exam room
- → Professional demeanor impacts defensibility
After the IME
The physician’s report is the central deliverable — and it must withstand legal scrutiny. Understand what makes an IME report defensible, how findings influence claim strategy, and when a new IME may be warranted.
- → The IME report must be defensible
- → “More likely than not” governs — not certainty
- → Clarity and consistency determine credibility
- → Neutrality must be preserved post-report
- → IME results directly impact claim outcomes
Jeffrey Westpheling, MD MPH
Probity Medical Services, LLC
Dr. Westpheling brings decades of clinical practice and IME experience to this course. His background in both medicine and public health gives him a uniquely practical perspective on the intersection of clinical evaluation and legal decision-making in the workers’ compensation system.
Drawing on years of conducting, reviewing, and defending IME opinions, Dr. Westpheling provides actionable guidance rooted in real-world experience — not just theory. His approach emphasizes objectivity, thoroughness, and clear communication that holds up under deposition and litigation.
“The effectiveness of an IME is not determined at a single point in time, but rather through a continuum of preparation, execution, and application.”
— Dr. Jeffrey Westpheling, MD MPH
Course Curriculum
Five comprehensive modules covering the full IME lifecycle.
Who Should Take This Course?
Claims Professionals
Adjusters and claims managers who order IMEs, review reports, and rely on findings to drive coverage and treatment decisions.
Nurse Case Managers
Clinical professionals coordinating IME scheduling, record collection, and follow-through on IME recommendations.
Defense Professionals
Attorneys and legal teams preparing for depositions, challenging opposing IMEs, or working with reports in litigation.
Risk & Employer Teams
Risk managers, TPA personnel, and self-insured employers seeking to understand how IMEs shape claim outcomes and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a standalone course or part of a certification?
Both. IME Best Practices is available as a standalone course for $95, or it is included as part of the ATEC – Medical Management center subscription, which provides access to a full library of medical management courses.
Do I earn CEUs for completing this course?
This course is approved by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) for 3 hours of continuing education (CE) credit for licensed adjusters.
Texas is a NAIC Continuing Education Reciprocity (CER) home state. Adjusters licensed in other states may be able to receive CE credit through their state’s participation in the NAIC CER program. Each licensee is responsible for verifying acceptance of Texas-approved CE with their own state licensing authority.
Is this course appropriate for IME physicians?
While the course provides valuable perspective for physicians who conduct IMEs, it is primarily designed for claims and legal professionals who order, coordinate, and rely on IME findings in claim management.
What is ATEC?
ATEC (Advanced Training and Education Center) is WorkCompCollege.com’s medical management educational division, offering comprehensive course libraries taught by leading clinical and industry experts.
Enroll Today
Choose the enrollment option that’s right for you.
IME Best Practices
One-time enrollment with full access to all three phases and course materials.
- ✓ Full course access
- ✓ Before, During & After the IME
- ✓ 5 comprehensive modules
- ✓ Certificate of completion
ATEC Subscription
Access the full ATEC library, including IME Best Practices and the complete ATEC course catalog.
- ✓ All ATEC courses
- ✓ IME Best Practices included
- ✓ Expanding course library
- ✓ Certificates for all completions
- ✓ Ideal for teams and organizations
Better IMEs Start Before the Appointment
Get the preparation, execution, and follow-through right — and transform the IME from a procedural checkbox into a powerful claims management tool.
