The role the physician served, and the weight the opinion carried. Physicians are named here as the decision names them; we do not score them.
QMERelied upon · PMR
Applicant totally disabled due to functional and mobility losses; condition not conducive to scheduled work day
WCJ and Appeals Board relied on Dr. Brown's findings corroborating vocational expert opinion
From the decision · page 71819.) He further noted that due to worsening, applicant would be unable to participate in the most rudimentary work assignments even on a part-time basis (Exhibit A2, p. 4.) These findings were corroborated by orthopedic PQME, Dr. Brown, who confirmed that applicant was totally disabled due to functional and mobility losses. (Exhibit J9, p.
otherNot reached · orthopedic surgery
From the decision · page 2Applicant sought and received treatment from orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Mark Howard of Pinnacle Healthcare, and pain management specialists, Drs. William Brose and Robert Cluff of the HELP Pain Medical Network.
QMENot reached · psychiatry
Psyche injury permanent and stationary with GAF 54; 25% non-industrial apportionment; synergistic effect with orthopedic injury
Opinion noted but not determinative of outcome
From the decision · page 2Lopez opined that there is synergistic effect between applicant’s orthopedic and psychiatric injuries and the disabilities should be added rather than combined. (Exhibit J1, p 2.)
AMENot reached · urology
Erectile dysfunction as compensable consequence of lumbar injury; 12% WPI; permanent and stationary
Opinion noted but not determinative of outcome
From the decision · page 2Dr. Kuyt evaluated applicant on April 12, 2022, and diagnosed him with erectile dysfunction as a compensable consequence of the lumbar injury. (Exhibit J5, p. 14.) He opined that applicant’s condition was permanent and stationary with a resulting 12% whole person impairment. (Id. at pp. 14-15.) Work restrictions were not recommended. ( Id. at p.