Title: 

APD 040832

Significant Decision

Date: 

June 2, 2004

Issues: 

Spinal Surgery Issue Code

Table of Contents

APD 040832

This appeal arises pursuant to the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, TEX. LAB. CODE ANN. § 401.001 et seq. (1989 Act). A contested case hearing (CCH) was held on April 5, 2004. The hearing officer determined that the independent review organization (IRO) decision is not supported by a preponderance of the evidence. The appellant (carrier) appealed this determination. The respondent (claimant) responded, urging affirmance.

DECISION

Affirmed.

Whether the IRO’s decision was supported by a preponderance of the evidence was a factual question for the hearing officer to resolve. The hearing officer is the sole judge of the weight and credibility of the evidence (Section 410.165(a)) and, as the trier of fact, resolves the conflicts and inconsistencies in the evidence, including the medical evidence (Texas Employers Insurance Association v. Campos, 666 S.W.2d 286 (Tex. App.-Houston [14th Dist.] 1984, no writ)). Nothing in our review of the record indicates that the hearing officer’s decision is so against the great weight and preponderance of the evidence as to be clearly wrong or manifestly unjust. Cain v. Bain, 709 S.W.2d 175, 176 (Tex. 1986).

The decision and order of the hearing officer are affirmed.

The true corporate name of the insurance carrier is AMERICAN HOME ASSURANCE COMPANY and the name and address of its registered agent for service of process is

CORPORATION SERVICE COMPANY

800 BRAZOS, SUITE 750, COMMODORE 1

AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701.

Veronica L. Ruberto

CONCUR:

Robert W. Potts – Appeals Judge

Margaret L. Turner – Appeals Judge