Medical Experts USA does not require a retainer for independent medical exams: An independent medical examination (IME) is an evaluation performed by a doctor who is not involved in the patient’s care for the purpose of establishing medical and job-related issues. The worker’s compensation insurance carrier or self-insured employer has a legal right to request an independent medical examination. Should an IME determine that the patient’s medical condition is not work-related, the insurer can deny the claim and refuse payment. But the insurer must have a physician’s medical opinion prior to denying a claim.