Cochran, Richard

Applicant Richard Cochran, a tower technician rendered paraplegic by an April 19, 2019 injury, sought reconsideration of a WCJ's F&O finding that a May 10, 2021 UR non-certification of a modified vehicle was timely and that he was not entitled to a modified vehicle (but could request it again). Applicant argued the UR provider (CorVel) could not request an extension of the UR deadline because it already had all necessary information, and that the modification recommendation was untimely. The WCJ found CorVel's May 3, 2021 request for additional information valid because the driving evaluation alone, without medical review and supporting documentation (including psychological issues, treatment plan, and medical necessity), was insufficient. The WCAB agreed with the WCJ, noting Dr. Sassoon's reasoning that the driving evaluation outcome should be assessed before determining the necessity of a modified vehicle, and observing that more than 12 months had passed so Dr. Patterson could submit a new RFA with supporting documentation. The Board denied reconsideration.