Quintero, Catalina

Applicant Catalina Quintero retained counsel who, after objecting to the treater's findings, requested a QME panel in chiropractic using the ADJ case number because no claim number existed or was available at the time. Defendant Northbay Distribution/BHHC sought removal of the WCJ's September 29, 2025 Findings and Order, which had found the applicant's chiropractic panel valid, arguing that the request failed to comply with QME Rule 30 because it lacked a claim number. The WCJ recommended denial, finding the ADJ number was the functional equivalent of a claim number where the claim number was unavailable, distinguishing the Sidahmed decision. The WCAB treated the petition as one for reconsideration (since the decision contained a threshold finding on employment) but applied the removal standard because only an interlocutory issue was challenged. The Board adopted the WCJ's report and denied the petition, finding no significant prejudice or irreparable harm.