SHALON THAMES vs. QUALEX INCORPORATED, OLD REPUBLIC INSURANCE COMPANY
The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) granted reconsideration, rescinded the previous award, and returned the case for further proceedings because the medical evidence regarding permanent disability and apportionment was critically flawed and lacked substantial evidence. The WCAB found that neither the applicant's treating physician nor the defendant's QME adequately addressed causation and apportionment under current legal principles. The Board ordered further development of the medical record, prioritizing supplemental opinions from existing physicians before considering other options.