Comprehensive Evaluations
Dr. David Granovetter specializes in independent, third-party evaluations of physicians and other safety-sensitive healthcare professionals. These evaluations are designed to assess clinical diagnoses (when appropriate), current functional capacity, determine fitness for duty, and guide next steps for individuals experiencing potentially impairing conditions.
Dr. Granovetter does not serve in a treating capacity with the individuals he evaluates. The client for each evaluation is the referring organization or individual (e.g., medical board, hospital, employer, legal counsel), and all findings and recommendations are communicated directly to the referring party. However, when appropriate, he may recommend a specific level of treatment for substance use or mental health conditions if such diagnoses are identified during the evaluation.
Evaluations are conducted with a commitment to clarity, objectivity, and confidentiality, and are tailored to the specific clinical and regulatory context of each case.
Types of Evaluations Offered
Diagnostic Evaluations
In-depth assessments to clarify psychiatric, substance use, cognitive, or behavioral health diagnoses and their implications for professional functioning.Fitness-for-Duty Evaluations (FFD)
Structured assessments to determine whether a professional can safely perform the essential functions of their role, with or without accommodations. Note that functional assessment of physical capacities to perform specific job functions is not included in these evaluations.Return-to-Work Assessments and Recommendations
Evaluations of readiness to safely resume clinical or safety-sensitive duties after a leave related to illness, impairment, or disciplinary issues. Delineating the need, intensity and duration of monitoring after return to work.Second Opinions or Clarification Reviews
When additional clarity is needed following a prior evaluation.
Evaluation Process
Dr. Granovetter’s approach is:
Comprehensive: Integrating medical, psychological, functional, and contextual data.
Functional: Focused on current capacity, not just diagnostic labeling.
Collaborative: Coordinated with treatment providers and organizational stakeholders, when appropriate.
Fair and Compassionate: Balancing the needs of public safety with respect for the individual being evaluated.
All reports are detailed, evidence-based, and prepared with the intended audience in mind—whether that be the medical board, hospital, employer, or legal representative.
Evaluation Components Include
Review of any records and information pertaining to the reason for the referral
In-depth clinical interview
Collateral interviews (with consent)
Medical and mental health record review
Structured functional assessment
Screening cognitive and psychological testing
Substance use assessment, including laboratory analysis of urine, hair, and blood
Coordination with independent specialists (e.g., neuropsychologist, toxicologist) as needed
A comprehensive report delineating findings and recommendations
Reports: Clear, Evidence-Based Recommendations
The primary deliverable of every evaluation is a comprehensive written report. This document provides:
Detailed Findings — A clear summary of history, collateral information, examination, and testing results.
Objective Analysis — Integration of clinical data and professional standards to address referral questions directly.
Functional Assessment — Evaluation of the individual’s capacity to safely perform in their professional role.
Evidence-Based Recommendations — Practical, defensible guidance regarding readiness for duty, treatment needs, monitoring, or other next steps.
Clarity for Decision-Makers — Reports are written to be accessible and actionable for boards, employers, attorneys, and committees.
Each report is designed to support informed decisions, balancing individual fairness with public and organizational safety.
Report timelines
Preliminary Verbal/Email Update: Within 1 business day after the evaluator concludes primary interview(s), or upon material findings, a brief status update will be provided to the referrer (or as otherwise agreed).
Initial Written Summary: Within 2 business days after completion of the primary interview(s), a concise written summary of preliminary impressions and next steps will be provided to the referrer.
Final Written Report: Within 10 business days after completion of all required evaluation components, the final report will be delivered to authorized recipients.
Referrals Are Welcomed From
Medical boards and other professional licensing bodies
Hospitals, Medical staff services, medical group practices, and healthcare employers
Well-being committees and professionals health programs
Legal counsel
Individual physicians seeking independent evaluation
Cost and Payment Responsibility
The cost of the evaluation is typically the responsibility of the individual being evaluated, unless other arrangements have been made in advance with the referring entity. Fee schedules available upon request.