Independent Medical Examination

Our Approach

With over 30 years of experience, Alpine Orthopaedic & Spine is called upon to provide testimony and serves as a legal witness in state and federal cases, performs independent reviews for insurance companies and is a tier three provider for Labor and Industries. Dr. Schmitz is serious about patient safety and maintains a database of all surgeries he has performed tracking the specifics about each case.

Looking for an IME in Spokane?

Call 509-435-0973 and speak with an Independent Medical Examiner today.

CALL 509-435-0973

What is an Independent Medical Examination?

An independent medical examination (IME) is an objective medical-legal examination requested (by L&I or self-insurer) to establish medical findings, opinions, and conclusions about a worker’s physical condition. These examinations may only be conducted by L&I-approved examiners.

Why Do You Need an IME?

Usually, L&I or the self-insurer requests an IME because it disagrees with a decision by the treating doctor about the course of medical treatment or the extent of any permanent disability. An IME is supposed to be an objective assessment of the medical condition, including what treatment is needed, whether there is permanent impairment and to what degree, and the ability to work in the future.

Dr. Miguel A. Schmitz, MD

Alpine Orthopaedic and Spine boasts one of Spokane’s top orthopedic and spine surgeons, Dr. Miguel Schmitz, MD who is board certified with the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons and has a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine. He is fellowship-trained in both Spine Surgery and Orthopedic Sports Medicine & Arthroscopy.