Impact of an Independent Medical Exam in a Connecticut Medical Malpractice Case

The impact of an independent medical exam in a Connecticut medical malpractice case can be substantial, often determining whether an injured patient receives fair compensation or faces an unfair challenge to their claim. These exams are intended to provide an impartial medical assessment. However, they can also be used by defense attorneys and insurance companies to dispute your injuries or question the cause of your condition.

At Berkowitz Hanna, we understand how independent medical exams (IMEs) influence the outcome of malpractice cases and how critical it is to handle them carefully. We know how to protect your rights before, during, and after the exam. With the right legal preparation and guidance, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your case remains strong from start to finish.

How Does an IME Affect Your Malpractice Claim?

In a Connecticut medical malpractice case, an IME can impact your claim in several key ways:

• Causation disputes: The examiner might suggest your injuries stemmed from a preexisting condition rather than negligence
• Damage minimization: The defense may argue that your symptoms are exaggerated or unrelated to the incident
• Contradicting experts: The IME’s findings can be used to challenge testimony from your treating doctors or expert witnesses
• Settlement value: Insurance companies often rely on IME reports to justify lower offers

Under Connecticut General Statutes § 52-184c, malpractice claims must be supported by expert testimony establishing that a provider breached the standard of care. Our lawyers can carefully analyze IME reports and work with medical experts to expose inaccuracies and strengthen your position.

What To Expect During an IME

When you are scheduled for an IME as part of your Connecticut medical malpractice evaluation, it is crucial to know what could affect your case and how to prepare. Our attorneys can help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity. You can generally anticipate the following:

• The exam may last from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the injury
• The physician will ask questions about your medical history, treatment, and current symptoms
• No treatment or medical advice will be given—the purpose is strictly evaluative
• The doctor’s written report is shared with both sides, and you have the right to review and dispute it
  

Our team can ensure that you attend the exam fully informed. We will provide detailed instructions about what to bring, what to avoid saying, and how to handle follow-up communications.

How Berkowitz Hanna Protects Clients in IME Matters

At Berkowitz Hanna, we know that an IME can significantly influence the outcome of a medical malpractice case in Connecticut, and we take a proactive approach to protect your interests. Our lawyers will research the examiner’s background to identify potential defense affiliations or credibility issues. We will compare the IME report with your treating physicians’ records and independent medical evaluations to detect any inconsistencies or biases. If the examiner’s conclusions appear incomplete or unsupported, we will consult additional medical experts to provide an accurate counter-analysis. 

Throughout this process, we will prepare clear, evidence-based arguments that highlight the full extent of your injuries and ensure that your story—not the defense’s narrative—remains at the center of your case.

Speak With an Attorney in Connecticut About the Effect of an IME on Medical Malpractice Claims

The impact of an independent medical exam in a Connecticut medical malpractice case can be profound, influencing everything from liability findings to compensation. You do not have to face this process alone. Our experienced lawyers will guide you through every stage, ensuring your rights and evidence remain protected.

Contact Berkowitz Hanna today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you navigate your IME with confidence.