What’s the Difference Between an IME and a CME?

Those who handle injury claims have probably heard the terms “IME” and “CME” tossed around, but they don’t mean the same thing. Independent medical exams and compulsory medical exams both play an important role in verifying injuries and medical conditions, but they happen at different stages and under different rules. Knowing the difference can help adjusters avoid confusion, save time, and keep claims strategies on track.

What is an IME?

Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) are evaluations by doctors who aren’t involved in the claimant’s treatment. The goal is to get an objective medical opinion about an injury, condition, or ongoing treatment.

Adjusters typically request an IME to:

• Clarify the cause and extent of an injury
• Assess whether treatment is reasonable and necessary
• Determine if the claimant can safely return to work
• Support fair claims decisions with documented medical evidence

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. employers reported nearly 946,500 nonfatal workplace injuries requiring days away from work in 2023. With so many cases involving lost time, it’s no surprise that industry sources estimate IMEs are requested in roughly 25–50% of lost-time Workers’ Compensation claims.

What is a CME?

Compulsory Medical Exams (CMEs) are court-ordered and take place after litigation has begun. In most cases, a defense attorney requests the exam under a procedural rule that governs medical evaluations during lawsuits.

Example:

Rule 1.360 of the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure allows one party (usually the defense) to request a physical or mental examination of the opposing party when that person’s condition is “in controversy.” The request must outline the time, place, manner, conditions, and scope of the exam, as well as the examiner’s name and qualifications. Once the judge approves the request, the exam becomes part of the official litigation process, and the resulting report can be used as evidence in court.

Because CMEs occur only once a lawsuit has been filed, they’re far less common than IMEs. In Florida, for example, only about 10% of personal-injury cases ever reach the litigation stage, meaning the vast majority of claims are resolved before a CME would even be requested.

Here’s how the process typically works:

• The defense files a motion with the court requesting the exam
• The judge reviews and approves the motion, specifying details such as location, doctor, and scope
• The examiner is chosen by the defense but must be court-approved
• The resulting report becomes part of the case evidence

While IMEs are part of the claims process, CMEs belong to the litigation process, and that legal distinction matters more than most realize

Value of Understanding the Difference Between an IME and a CME

It’s easy for terms like IME and CME to get used interchangeably, but understanding when to use independent medical exams versus compulsory medical exams can make a big difference.

Here’s why:

1. Timing: IMEs happen early, before litigation, helping you make informed claims decisions and potentially avoid lawsuits altogether.
2. Process: IMEs are arranged directly by the insurer or employer, while CMEs follow strict court procedures.
3. Communication: Mixing up the terms can create confusion between claims teams, defense counsel, and medical providers.
4. Knowing the difference keeps claims defensible, compliant, and efficient. It also ensures smoother coordination with legal teams if the claim escalates into a lawsuit.

Ready to keep claims on track with clear, objective medical insight? Talk to us today.

Browse the rest of our learning center resources here.