TCOM provides a wide range of independent evaluations.  All conclusions provided are based on objective findings.  As a policy, our physicians favor no specific interest (insurer, employer, or patient).  Rather, they advocate for truthful conclusions based upon the physician’s medical expertise and experience.  All examinations are performed by Board Certified physicians with extensive experience in independent evaluations. 

Transcribed results of examinations are available within 24 hours, and if necessary, immediate phone results can be arranged. Return to work evaluations after non-occupational injury or illness may be seen at any time and do not require an appointment.  Due to the length and complexity of the other examinations, please call ahead to schedule. 

Independent Medical Evaluation: A full independent medical evaluation will incorporate aspects of all of the evaluation categories seen below: causality, permanency, maximal medical improvement, need for additional treatment, disability, and ability to return to work.  Evaluations are scheduled for the specific physician depending on the specialty required.  We strongly recommend that the referring party send a written list of questions they would like answered.  The best IME is one in which a specific answer can be given to a specific question. 

Disability Evaluation: A disability evaluation is performed when an employee has achieved some stability and permanency to his medical condition.  At times, the evaluation may determine that the disability in fact, is not stable, but may improve with additional treatment.  TCOM physicians focus on a worker’s abilities, as opposed to disabilities, in order to project the most favorable and optimistic chance for meaningful return to gainful employment.  These exams may be required as a condition of a disability insurance plan. 

Fitness for Duty Evaluation:  This evaluation is designed to determine if an employee is medically and physically capable of performing their job.  The necessity of this examination may be triggered by the employee providing a note from his/ her personal doctor indicating the need for accommodations or permanent restrictions.  It may also be necessary for the employee with recurrent absences, disabilities, work injuries, or declining performance due to a progressive or poorly controlled medical condition. 

Causality Determination:  Causality determinations are performed when an employee alleges that an injury or illness is due to workplace factors or exposures.  The employer or insurance carrier may have doubts and request an independent evaluation. 

Return to Work after non-occupational injury or illness: This examination is a cost-effective way to ensure that a worker has sufficiently healed or recovered from a non-work related injury in order to safely return to work. Too often, return to work issues are driven by financial reasons, and risk of injury or ability to perform the job are not adequately addressed by treating personal physicians -  their decisions may be made solely on the basis of the patient’s self reported need to get back to work.  Furthermore, a personal physician may simply provide a note returning the employee to “light duty.”  This exam provides the security of knowing whether the employee can safely return to work, and what, if any specific limitations are necessary.

370 Campus Drive - Somerset, NJ
732.748.1900