Independent Medical Examiners

An Independent Medical Examiner (IME) is approved and registered by WorkSafe. An IME is regarded as a specialist in the injury being assessed. 

An IME can be a registered:

• Medical Practitioner
• Dentist
• Podiatrist
• Physiotherapist
• Osteopath
• Chiropractor
• Psychiatrist
• Psychologist
• Pain management specialist

IMEs are registered for a 3-year period and any complaint made against an IME is recorded against the IME when re-registration is required. 

They are used by Workcover agents to examine and write a report in relation to the injured workers claim. The report can be used to make decisions on the success of a claim, or when a claim has progressed and the injured worker has some capacity to return to work. In the case of returning to work, they indicate the types of work you can perform to the agent. IMEs are paid by WorkSafe, however, WorkCover agents must not influence IMEs in the outcome of their report, and employers must not influence the choice of the IME or any part of the IME process.

Please note that injured workers have reported experiences of IMEs writing reports base on exaggerated or falsified information. It is recommended to approach IMEs with caution. 

The information on this website produced and distributed by the IWSN is of a general nature. We do our best to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, but cannot take any responsibility for any loss arising out of its use. You should not rely on it applying in your own circumstances and should always take further advice from those with appropriate qualifications.

Last updated August 2024.