University of Virginia Health System

Disability Evaluation Services

Disability Evaluation Services at the University of Virginia serve as a resource for the medical and legal communities as well as government agencies in the mid-Atlantic region. Comprehensive assessment and management of work related injuries and disability are provided. Services include: 

Worker's Compensation Disability Evaluations - There are several different kinds of Worker's Compensation disability evaluations designed to identify physical impairment and associated disabilities and how they relate to the individual's ability to perform work:

• Independent Medical Exam (IME): An Independent Medical Exam is a thorough and impartial assessment. The purpose of an IME is to objectively answer a caseworker's or attorney's specific questions regarding the patient's medical history. The patient will not be provided with advice, opinions, or treatment. It is not a comprehensive medical examination to assess all aspects of the patient's general health. (Not covered by regular health insurance.)
  
• Impairment Rating: An impairment rating is an evaluation of physiologic or anatomic function based on the most recent edition of the "American Medical Association's Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment." A percentage of impairment is generated based on the exam and the guidelines.
  
• Functional Capacity Exam (FCE): A Functional Capacity Exam helps to objectively determine whether a person may return to work, what work restrictions may be needed, and whether a person has reached maximal medical improvement. An exam includes cardiovascular conditioning, lifting, physical demand/positional tolerance, grip/pinch strength, range of movement, muscle strength of effected areas, and neurological testing. *Functional Capacity Exams are not done by the UVa Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. UVa-HealthSouth Outpatient Physical Therapy conducts these exams. For an FCE appt. please call 434-243-0311. (FCEs are not covered by regular health insurance.)

Social Security Disability Determination Exams (DDS): Patients wanting to obtain Social Security benefits should contact the Office of Social Security directly, and set up an appointment for a Disability Determination Exam. The main number for the Social Security Office is 1-800-772-1213. Patients who have already had a Disability Determination Exam and disagree with the outcome are encouraged to appeal to Social Security.

Disability Insurance: The insurance company usually initiates these exams. Disability is based predominantly on the treating physician's description and records. We can provide a second opinion in certain cases.

Medical Legal Consultation: Emphasis is on supportable medical conclusions and may involve examination and/or medical record review in cases with pending litigation.

Record Review and Medical Opinion Letter: This service provides a review and explanation of the information contained within the medical record. Specific questions may be addressed.

Alan P. Alfano, M.D., Director
Jeffrey Jenkins, M.D.
David S. Rubendall, M.D.