A structured interview is often conducted as part of the evaluation process, usually after an initial records review, and allows Dr. Hankins to direct questions pertaining to the outcomes of interest in a particular case and to address any ambiguities identified from a review of available records. A structured interview can be used to gain information about numerous topics but, beyond obtaining or confirming key facts such as documenting an individual’s age, education, and work history, the focus is usually on gathering qualitative data about relevant case issues. For example, in an injury case, if available earnings records reveal significant fluctuations in pre-injury income, a portion of the interview would likely involve a discussion of the reasons for the lack of consistency in earnings to determine how this factor may influence the determination of the individual’s pre-incident wage-earning capacity and/or work-life expectancy.
