CompFox AI Summary
In this case, the applicant sustained work-related injuries to her mid and low back. The defendant disputed the applicant's request for a chiropractic Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) panel, arguing an orthopedic-spine specialist was more appropriate. The Medical Director initially agreed, citing the use of prescription medication outside a chiropractor's scope. However, the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board denied the defendant's petition for reconsideration, finding that the Medical Director's rationale was insufficient. The Board affirmed the Workers' Compensation Judge's decision to overrule the Medical Director and allow a chiropractic QME, citing precedent that QMEs cannot provide treatment or opine on disputed treatment issues.
Full Decision Text1 Pages
In this case, the applicant sustained work-related injuries to her mid and low back. The defendant disputed the applicant's request for a chiropractic Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) panel, arguing an orthopedic-spine specialist was more appropriate. The Medical Director initially agreed, citing the use of prescription medication outside a chiropractor's scope. However, the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board denied the defendant's petition for reconsideration, finding that the Medical Director's rationale was insufficient. The Board affirmed the Workers' Compensation Judge's decision to overrule the Medical Director and allow a chiropractic QME, citing precedent that QMEs cannot provide treatment or opine on disputed treatment issues.
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