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 July 21, 2004. The hearing officer determined that the compensable injury of _____________, extends to and includes an umbilical hernia. The appellant (carrier) appeals this determination on sufficiency of the evidence grounds. No response was filed.

DECISION

Affirmed.

The hearing officer did not err in determining that the compensable injury of _____________, extends to and includes an umbilical hernia. This determination involved a question of fact 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)). In view of the evidence presented, we cannot conclude that the hearing officer's determination 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 is affirmed.

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

CHARLIE MILLER, REGIONAL CLAIMS MANAGER

10200 RICHMOND AVENUE, SUITE 175

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77042.

Edward Vilano

CONCUR:

Chris Cowan
Appeals Judge

Margaret L. Turner
Appeals Judge