Sidahmed, Azza

Applicant Azza Sidahmed, an administrative legal assistant, claimed industrial injury to her back and right knee. Both parties independently requested orthopedic QME panels on June 2, 2023; defendant's request listed an incorrect claim number (CTYA-107057, corresponding to a different claim for which a panel had already issued), while applicant's request listed the correct number (CTYA-105264). The DWC Medical Unit issued panel no. 7590870 to defendant and panel no. 7590891 to applicant, then revoked panel no. 7590870. The WCJ initially found defendant's panel valid and applicant's invalid, but the Appeals Board reversed, holding that defendant's panel request was void ab initio because it failed to provide accurate mandatory information under AD Rule 30. The Board found applicant's panel no. 7590891 valid, upheld applicant's selection of Dr. Amezquita as QME, and admonished defense counsel for unilaterally contacting and refusing to pay the QME instead of seeking an emergency stay.