Overview
Assessment Services
IME
An Independent Medical Evaluation is an objective, physical exam conducted by a physician or allied healthcare professional. In complex cases, a multi-specialty physician may be assigned to the case. The purpose of the exam is to determine the nature and extent of an injury. The findings of the examination are documented in a formal written report that address specific questions associated with the diagnosis and treatment.
FCE
A Functional Capacity Evaluation assesses an examinee’s capabilities, limitations, motivational status, and reliability of effort based on accepted testing protocols, and is typically performed by a kinesiologist. The testing protocols for an FCE are designed to determine the examinee’s functional abilities and limitations in order ascertain functional status for employability. The findings of the evaluation are contained in the FCE report.
JDA
A Job Demands Analysis examines the physical demands of the tasks or duties required in a specific job and is typically performed by a kinesiologist. JDA is designed to measure and quantify the physical strength and positional tolerances required in a specific job. The JDA report contains quantitative measurements and analytics to facilitate appropriate occupational recommendations and assignments.
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Cost of Future Care Assessment
Cost of Future Care Assessment or Life Care Plan is a comprehensive report that details current and future needs and financial requirements for individuals with a catastrophic injury or chronic health care needs. The assessment includes a review of medical information; interview in the home environment; consultation with health professionals and family members; data analysis and research to understand the extent of injury and disability; and how it impacts on the individual’s daily life.
Claims Review Committee
BC-based review committee based on collective agreements in the province for long term disability appeals. A three doctor panel collaborates together to determine a majority decision based on the panels examinations and the opinions of any additional specialists. The panel is made up of one employee appointed doctor, one employer appointed doctor and an agreed upon third chairman of the committee. The parties are all bound by the final decision from the Claims Review Committee.
Ergonomic Assessments
IMA Solutions provides onsite ergonomic assessments at any workstation location. An experienced Kinesiologist, Occupational Therapist or Ergonomist will conduct a customized assessment that includes observation of the workplace as well as an examination of the employee regarding pain levels, work duties and practices. Ergonomic Assessments are often conducted when an individual is experiencing pain or discomfort with their job demands. The assessment analyses current working conditions to identify risk factors. Assessments provide an understanding of a workstation or home environment. Recommendations including physical changes to the form of the workstation or work area, addition of assistive equipment and suggestions on work practices and habits within the workplace will be included in a comprehensive report.
Vocational and Employability Assessment
Professional Vocational Assessors conduct examinations to match individuals with the appropriate available jobs. The assessor reviews the individual’s physiological and psychological medical information to make the Vocational and Employability Assessment. The Assessment will involve an investigation of the examinee’s occupational history, education, transferable skills as well as the current labour market opportunities. The resulting report will address the examinee’s current employability and the market conditions of that vocation. The Assessment will involve an investigation of the examinees’ occupational history, education, transferable skills as well as the current labour market opportunities. The resulting report will address the examinee’s current Employability in what capacity and the market conditions of that vocation.
Neuropsychological Assessments
Physicians assess visio-spatial functions to rate impairments in visual perception and constructional abilities. Certified medical professionals provide a detailed opinion about an examinee’s cognitive functions based on Effort Testing. Additionally, a determination of overall perception is conducted regarding the examinees processing of sensory information. Neuropsychological Assessments cover areas such as: memory, reasoning, attention, concentration, problem solving and the speed in which the examinee is able to process information.
Medical File Review
Medical File Review determines the reasonableness and appropriateness of the medical care rendered; medical necessity of care; and causal relationships. The paper-based review, conducted by a physician with the appropriate specialty and training, examines a previous diagnostic report and is an economical way to determine if a claimant’s condition is properly documented, diagnosed and understood. The Medical File Review report can assist in fair claims resolution.
Addictions Medicine
An addictions IME and report centers on the treatment of addiction and addictive diseases. The physician’s assessment provides a comprehensive overview regarding psychosocial, vocational, and other drug related histories that is sourced from review of medical records and an in depth interview. The addictions IME report focuses on identifying the level of addiction in order to provide recommendation for the intervention, prevention and rehabilitation of individuals suffering from substance use disorders.