IMO; Dr. Ellis IME

[broncovet]

Vets often ask, "Where can I get an IMO to get a nexus?"   

Recall that a Nexus is a key element in the Required Caluza elements of current diagnosis, in service event, and nexus. 

While I have not personally used Dr. Ellis, at least one Veteran has.  However, $500 for an IMO is great.  But, an IME (Independent Medical Exam) would be even better.  

I have heard of at least one doctor who charges up to $10,000 for an IMO.  I think Dr. Bash quoted me $5000.  At that time, Dr. Bash would do the exam without cash up front, then you paid him out of retro.  Im not sure he does that any more.  

Dr. Ellis apparently requires payment up front, but at least its not $5000 up front!

If I had need of a nexus, I would likely hire Dr. Ellis.  I listened to his video and IM convinced he is for the Veteran and knows what he is doing.  

Quote

You should throw in Dr. Ellis at the Ellis clinic (OKC).  Very affordable.  Worth a trip.  Got me to 100% P&T.

https://ellisclinic.com/va.html

According to his website, you can use Mastercard/Visa/American Express.

For me, being able to put it on a credit card was a great idea.  Why?  Well I was certain an IMO would get me many times that back in retro.  

I actually did the same thing..put my IMO on a credit card, then paid it back when I got the retro.  My IMO was for a voc rehab specialist, and I also paid 500, and it was well worth it.  

If you do not have a nexus, you need an IMO or IME, like Dr. Ellis to win it.  

Source:  Etrain's post on hadit.  Thanks, Etrain.  

NOTE:  Hiring Dr. Ellis would mean you would need to travel to Oklahoma City, as its an Independent EXAM, as opposed to an Independent OPINION.  My opinion is that an EXAM is better.  An IMO is only as good as the current medical records, but an EXAM, the doc can also add his opinions based on him personally examining you.  

Example:  You applied for benefits, but were denied, and you figured out you dont have a nexus.  Well, you didnt get treated for your arthritis, until 2021, but you have been suffering from it, since 2007.  You can Tell Dr. Ellis your symptoms and how it affects your work, since 2007.  Dr. Ellis "could" indicate, in his opinion, your symptoms began in 2007, for example, if he looked at an xray or other medical tests which showed degenerative arthritis.  This could result in retro.  back to 2007.  If you got an IMO, from a doc who has never examined you, then that may not work as well.  

 

Edited December 21, 2021 by broncovet

[john999]

I think $5000 for an IMO is pretty steep unless you are going for big retro.  I got one years ago for about $250 but that doctor has since retired.  I went through an attorney that I used to represent me before the MSPB when I was a postal worker.  SSA lawyers know the doctors who know how to write opinions.  However, to get a doctor to show a nexus with military service the doctor probably has to review you service records and that is asking a lot.  Now if your condition is already service connected then a SSA doctor can help if you can give him a hint about what is needed.  Many doctors just won't listen if you try and tell them their business.  They think we are all idiots.  When I got my medical opinions I was in treatment with private doctors for years so getting them to write me a report was easy.  Psychiatrists and psychologists write the best reports.

[Mr cue]

Smh ok so there pay to play doctor and the VA make a list of them.

An ppl are still paying for these exams.

Yes it use to work back in the days.

The VA will still order there own exam and use there exam.

To me in my humble opinion.

The pay to play exams and the doctors.

Is over they made a list of doctors.