Our board-certified neurosurgeons provide independent, objective medical examinations for workers' compensation claims, personal injury litigation, and disability determinations involving the spine and nervous system.
An independent medical examination (IME) is a medical evaluation performed by a physician who is not involved in the ongoing treatment of the patient. IMEs are commonly requested in workers' compensation cases by the employer's insurer, by the injured worker's attorney, or by the court to obtain an objective opinion on diagnosis, causation, treatment necessity, maximum medical improvement (MMI), and permanent impairment.
Our neurosurgeons conduct IMEs with the same rigor and thoroughness applied to clinical evaluations — reviewing all records, performing a physical examination, and providing a comprehensive written report that addresses the specific questions posed by the requesting party.
Comprehensive review of records and physical examination to provide an independent opinion on diagnosis, causation, and treatment necessity for spine and neurological conditions.
An objective opinion on whether proposed spine surgery is medically necessary, whether the indication is appropriate, and whether less invasive alternatives should be considered first.
An assessment of whether the injured worker has reached MMI — the point at which the condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve further with additional treatment.
A formal impairment rating using AMA Guides to Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, as required by the Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Commission.
An opinion on whether the alleged work injury caused or significantly aggravated the spinal condition in question, based on review of records, imaging, and examination findings.
A records-only review of proposed treatment to assess medical necessity and appropriateness relative to evidence-based guidelines including ODG.
In addition to workers' compensation IME services, Dr. Robert E. Tibbs, Jr. performs independent medical evaluations for personal injury and liability cases. These evaluations provide objective medical opinions regarding causation, injury severity, treatment appropriateness, and prognosis for use in civil litigation, insurance claims, and dispute resolution.
Reports are thorough, well-documented, and adhere to established medicolegal standards. Dr. Tibbs is experienced in providing deposition and trial testimony when required.
Our fellowship-trained spine specialists evaluate both standard and workers' compensation cases.