During your claim, it can be useful to undergo a medical assessment by somebody who hasn't treated or examined you before (an 'independent medical assessment'). This can help you and the insurer to understand the impact of your injuries, and how you're recovering.

Organising an assessment

The insurer might ask you to undergo an independent assessment, or you can ask the insurer for one. Another option is for you and the insurer to arrange a joint assessment using our Joint Independent Medical Assessment Guideline.

If you're arranging your own assessment, contact the insurer beforehand to ask whether they approve. If the insurer approves the assessment, they will pay for it.

If the insurer arranges an assessment for you, they tell you about an assessment at least seven business days in advance. If the time or date do not work for you, contact the insurer as soon as possible to discuss an alternate time.

You can claim the expenses of attending an appointment (for example, travel expenses).

If you need an interpreter, the insurer will arrange one for you.

Cancelling an assessment

If you cannot go to the assessment, tell the insurer as soon as possible.

If you do not attend, or cancel the assessment less than two business days before the appointment, and the insurer needs to pay a cancellation fee, they can deduct this from your settlement.

After the assessment

The assessor will write a report and send it to the insurer. Once they receive this report, the insurer will send you a copy within 21 days.

If you do not understand the report, or disagree with it, contact the insurer to discuss.

More information

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