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 November 19, 2003. The hearing officer determined that appellant (claimant) reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) on June 13, 2002, with an impairment rating (IR) of 10%, in accordance with the report of the Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission-selected designated doctor. Claimant appealed these determinations on sufficiency grounds. Respondent (carrier) responded that the Appeals Panel should affirm the hearing officer’s decision and order.
DECISION
We affirm.
We have reviewed the complained-of determinations and perceive no error. The hearing officer did not err in giving presumptive weight to the designated doctor’s report, and in determining claimant’s MMI date and IR in accordance with that report. The hearing officer reviewed the record and decided what facts were established. By giving presumptive weight to the designated doctor, the 1989 Act provides a mechanism for accepting the designated doctor’s resolution of any differences in medical opinion between the designated doctor and the treating doctor. Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission Appeal No. 031023, decided May 29, 2003. We conclude that the hearing officer did not err in giving presumptive weight to the report of the designated doctor.
We affirm the hearing officer’s decision and order.
According to information provided by carrier, the true corporate name of the insurance carrier is AMERICAN MANUFACTURERS MUTUAL INSURANCE 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.
Judy L. S. Barnes – Appeals Judge
CONCUR:
Chris Cowan – Appeals Judge
Robert W. Potts – Appeals Judge