Definition Of An Imo?

[tagandbag]

I feel like I am asking a stupid question, but I've heard there is no such thing as a stupid question, only a stupid answer. My understanding is that an IMO is an (Independent Medical Opinion). If, this is true, I dont understand why you would have to pay 2 to 3k for an expert witness. It seems that you could just go to a clinical pyhsc. for a half dozen visits and get an IMO. I got one from my private physician and did not cost me anything. What I am saying is if you have an HMO, you can go to a specialist in this field, for thirty dolars a visit. That would be about 180.00 or so. Am I in left field or what, on this. :D

[grlewis72]

Hi, I am kind of new here. Does anyone have the contact info on Dr. Dennis Barston? If this has already been answered then I apologize.

[jbasser]

Last I heard he was in Norfolk VA and had a web site www.vetdr.net. It is no longer there.

You may want to search for him.

J

[PALMETTO2]

I feel like I am asking a stupid question, but I've heard there is no such thing as a stupid question, only a stupid answer. My understanding is that an IMO is an (Independent Medical Opinion). If, this is true, I dont understand why you would have to pay 2 to 3k for an expert witness. It seems that you could just go to a clinical pyhsc. for a half dozen visits and get an IMO. I got one from my private physician and did not cost me anything. What I am saying is if you have an HMO, you can go to a specialist in this field, for thirty dolars a visit. That would be about 180.00 or so. Am I in left field or what, on this. B)

[retiredat44]

Not sure if we can post info here on organizations that will aide you in a search for a doctor that does IMO's. I recently found a company that will help find you a doctor for an IME/IMO. They didn't charge me a dime. I did however, have to pay the doctor $1,600. I have now included the IME in my claim appeal. (I was laready rated 50% from many years ago..)

This organization/company is in Southern California. I neve rput a link up in my post, because was afraid it might be against rules. I had struggled with searching hard for a doctor that specializes in my illness and that could understand what a nexus letter is for submitting to the VA. After many weeks and months of searching I found this place, and though I have only just submitted it with an appeal, I am happy with the work that was done.

I just wanted to pass this on. I have no connections to the place and gain nothing on recommending the place. I just phoned and emailed them, told them I am a disabled vet putting ina new claim and need an IMO/IME.

They old me they usually only deal with insurance companies, but in my case they took me privately, and I paid the doctor cash. This doctor was a specialist in specific areas of medicine. My issue was internal medicine and toxicology. It took a couple months to see the doctor and two more months waiting for the report to be made and sent.

FYI

[Berta]

Many private treating doctors will do an IMO for free.

But a vet whose care is exclusively done via VA might well have to pay a large fee for an IMO from a private doctor.My IMOs cost $2,000 each and then the last one I ordered cost 1750 but the award came before the IMO did. My freeby IMO -email from a former VA doctor who treated my husband was free and the BVA gave it as much weight as the corroborating IMOs and evidence.

It took me many months to find the former VA doctor and his statement-while great for the claim-still needed more medical corroboration.

IMOs have to be thought of as an investment.

[Pete53]

Retired

Please feel free to post the link. It may help a Veteran find another place to get an IMO. Your confusion about rules may be that advertising is not allowed. You are sharing your experience which is a big part of this Board.

I also apologize as I can see how a new person on Hadit might worry a little considering what has happened here the last few weeks. Unfortunately although well meaning I hope some who come here are not able to conduct themselves without trying to upset others and pick fights with Members.

If you notice or not Hadit has survived and is back on track helping Veterans.Tbird does not ask for much for this wonderful website but following the rules is important. I am including a link to review the rules for anyone who needs to refresh their Memories. Don't forget when you join you agree to follow the rules.

Also don't feel that this is aimed at you its for all Members. I also want to thank you for your comment.

Pete