With hybrid assessment models becoming more common through advancing technology, it’s essential to understand the logistical, clinical, and legal considerations of remote independent medical examinations to ensure the opinions provided remain Courtworthy and trusted.

What is a remote proxy Independent Medicolegal Examination (IME) assessment?

A remote proxy IME assessment is a type of medicolegal examination where the medical expert and the claimant are in separate locations. For Remote Proxy IME assessments, Index Medicolegal utilise an allied health professional, such as an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or nurse to be physically present with the claimant as a proxy (surrogate) examiner. Connected via Videoconferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom, the Medical Expert will provide physical examination instructions to the proxy allied health professional, with the proxy feeding back to the medical expert their findings of the physical movements, and other examination findings whilst being observed by the independent medical examiner.

Why utilise a remote proxy Independent Medicolegal Examination (IME) assessment?

• Accessibility – For claimants who are minors, disabled or have difficulties in using transport. Using a proxy examiner and remote assessment can allow for hometown or domiciliary examinations which may have not been possible otherwise.
• Costs – If claimants are extremely remote or located a far distance from the relevant Expert it can be expensive and time consuming to have a medical Expert travel the distance to examine the claimant in person. Utilising a proxy examiner in these circumstances enables means specific medical expertise can be made available across Australia and internationally without accumulating large travel expenses. 
• Availability – Utilising a remote proxy assessment can often improve the amount of time needed to wait for an IME assessment. All Index medical Experts are active clinicians which can mean that if substantial travel is involved to conduct an IME there will likely be longer wait times for an IME appointment. Utilising an allied health proxy removes the need for substantial travel and allows for quicker booking.

Clinical Framework

• Benefits: Utilising an Allied Health Proxy examiner for a remote IME assessment has significant advantages compared to undertaking an assessment via videoconference alone. Because it allows for a comprehensive physical assessment to be taken place without the need for an Expert to travel.
• Pitfalls: A successful remote proxy IME assessment is dependent on clear communication, a suitable location and internet connectivity. 
• Appropriate Specialities: Specialties that require specific equipment for physical examinations may not be suitable for a Remote Proxy IME assessment unless the necessary equipment is available and the proxy examiner has been appropriately trained in its use. At Index Medicolegal our all of our medical examiners will consider the suitability of proxy examination dependent upon the letter of instruction.

Is a remote Independent Medicolegal Examination (IME) right for my case?

A remote proxy IME assessment will not be appropriate for every case but opens doors to quicker, more cost-efficient IME’s for remotely located or accessibility impacted claimants across Australia and internationally. Important things to consider when deciding if a remote proxy IME is right for your case:

• Preparation of the claimant: The claimant must understand that the allied health professional is there to not treat, simply physically examine. Information such as medication lists and relevant questionnaires will be provided to complete prior to the assessment.
• Technology set up: The claimant and proxy must have access to a reliable internet connection and device such as a laptop or iPad that will allow for videoconferencing.
• Interpreters: proxy examinations are possible using interpreters accompanying the patient or the expert.

Index Medicolegal is experienced in supporting both claimants and medical Experts in undertaking successful Remote Proxy Independent Medicolegal Examination (IME) assessments. Whether you need a remote proxy Independent Medical Examination assessment for you matter or an in-person IME assessment Index Medicolegal can assist you with finding the right Expert to assist.