WAC 296-23-382   What information must be included in an independent medical examination (IME) report?  (1) It is the department's intention to purchase objective examinations to ensure that sure and certain determinations are made of all benefits to which the worker might be entitled. The independent medical examination report must:

     (a) Contain objective, sound and sufficient medical information;

     (b) Document the review of the claim documents provided by the department or self-insurer;

     (c) Document the worker's history and the clinical findings;

     (d) Answer all the written questions posed by the department or self-insurer or include a description of what would be needed to address the questions;

     (e) Include objective conclusions and recommendations supported by underlying rationale that links the medical history and clinical findings;

     (f) Be in compliance with current department reporting policies; and

     (g) Be signed by the IME provider performing the examination.

     (2) An impairment rating report may be requested as a component of an IME. Impairment rating reports are to be done as specified in WAC 296-20-200 and 296-20-2010 (2)(a) through (e) and 296-23-377.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 51.32.055, 51.32.112, 51.32.114, 51.36.060, and 51.36.070. 04-04-029, § 296-23-382, filed 1/27/04, effective 3/1/04.]