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Disability Insurance

What should you know before an insurer's medical examination?

An independent medical examination is arranged and paid for by the insurer, and its report frequently becomes the basis for terminating benefits. You generally must attend where the policy requires it, but how you approach it matters: be accurate, be consistent, and do not overstate or minimise.

What to do next

  1. Confirm the obligation and the scope

    Check what the policy requires and ask in advance who the examiner is, their specialty, and how long the appointment will be. Requests outside the policy's scope can be questioned.

  2. Be accurate and consistent

    Describe a typical day including bad days, and be precise about what you can sustain rather than what you can do once. Do not exaggerate — inconsistency with your records is the most damaging outcome.

  3. Get the report and respond to it

    Request a copy. If it misstates your history or reaches conclusions your treating physicians disagree with, have them respond in writing. That response becomes part of the record.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to attend?

Usually yes, where the policy requires it — refusing can itself justify termination. If the request seems outside scope, get advice rather than simply declining.

Is the examiner independent?

They are retained and paid by the insurer. Professional, but not neutral in the way your treating physician is. That is why a treating-physician response matters.

Can I bring someone?

Sometimes. Ask in advance. Keeping your own dated note of what was asked and how long the examination lasted is useful either way.

This is general information, not legal advice. Laws vary by location and every situation is different — speak with a qualified lawyer about your specific circumstances.

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