This presentation by a workers’ compensation defense attorney will focus on proper utilization of independent medical examinations from a defense attorney perspective.  There has been a lot of focus on IMEs recently, as well as the new ex parte communication law, so it is important for claims examiners to learn how to pick IME physicians and write cover letters in order to obtain the most legally satisfactory report possible.  Learn how to determine what needs to be addressed and when it needs to be addressed.  In this presentation, we will discuss and provide training on writing an IME cover letter that will provide you with an accurate and defensible report should your case go into litigation.  We will also explain why the timing of solid IMEs is so important with the ex parte law.  We will dissect some sample IME cover letters and reports and teach you ways to improve your own IME cover letters and how to review the IME report so that your IME physicians and reports will stand up when your cases reach the Board and court levels.  We will also discuss the proposed rule changes by the Department on who can perform IMEs and how the new rules may impact your cases.  A question and answer period will complete the presentation.