Title: 

APD 012317

Significant Decision

Date: 

October 25, 2001

Issues: 

Comp/W Choice Doctor Req’ment

Table of Contents

APD 012317

This appeal arises pursuant to the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, TEX. LAB. CODE ANN. § 401.001 et seq. (1989 Act). A contested case hearing was held on August 27, 2001. The hearing officer determined that the respondent (claimant) was entitled to change her treating doctor and that the Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission (Commission) did not abuse its discretion in approving the claimant’s request to change treating doctors. The appellant (carrier) appealed that determination, arguing that the hearing officer erred in determining that the claimant is entitled to change treating doctors. The claimant responds, urging affirmance.

DECISION

Affirmed.

The hearing officer did not err in deciding that the claimant was entitled to change treating doctors. In this case, the treating doctor refused to continue medical care for the claimant because the carrier would not pay the medical bills.

Accordingly, the decision and order of the hearing officer are affirmed.

The true corporate name of the insurance carrier is TRANSCONTINENTAL INSURANCE COMPANY and the name and address of its registered agent for service of process is:

C.T. CORPORATION SYSTEM

350 NORTH ST. PAUL

DALLAS, TEXAS 75201.

Michael B. McShane – Appeals Judge

CONCUR:

Elaine M. Chaney – Appeals Judge

Robert E. Lang

Appeals Panel

Manager/Judge