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 March 30, 2004. The hearing officer determined that appellant (claimant) is not entitled to supplemental income benefits (SIBs) for the second, third, and fourth quarters and that whether claimant permanently lost entitlement to SIBs cannot be determined. Claimant appealed the determinations regarding good faith and SIBs entitlement for the second through fourth quarters 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 regarding good faith and SIBs entitlement and conclude that the issues involved fact questions for the hearing officer. The hearing officer reviewed the record and decided what facts were established. We conclude that the hearing officer’s determinations are supported by the record and are not 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). We further conclude that the hearing officer did not fail to consider claimant’s contentions and the evidence regarding SIBs entitlement. Although express determinations regarding the adequacy of the medical narratives and the sub-issues regarding good faith are preferred, the lack of such express findings does not constitute reversible error.
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 INTERSTATE INSURANCE COMPANY and the name and address of its registered agent for service of process is
STEVE ROPER
1616 SOUTH CHESTNUT STREET
LUFKIN, TEXAS 75901.
Judy L. S. Barnes
CONCUR:
Elaine M. Chaney – Appeals Judge
Edward Vilano – Appeals Judge