Barry W. Wall

Long-Term Disability Evaluations for Private Insurers

Disability evaluations for public or private insurance claims are among the most frequently requested psychiatric evaluations for non-treatment purposes. This chapter provides an overview and framework for independent medical examination (IME) providers, which are particularly relevant for evaluations in private long-term disability claims. These evaluations are typically best performed by an independent (non-treating) clinician with forensic training or expertise in these examinations. IME providers should be familiar with the referral context, expectations, and careful definition of the referral questions. Clinicians performing independent examinations should provide a comprehensive evaluation and detailed report; address the specific questions in clear language understandable to the non-mental health clinician; and use all available data to substantiate the logical conclusions in a fair, accurate, and objective manner.