Julio Pineda — ADJ13303390

Applicant Julio Pineda, a Community Improvement Officer for the City of Rancho Cucamonga, claimed a psychiatric injury (adjustment disorder) over a cumulative period from August 20, 2018 through May 30, 2020. The WCJ found a compensable psychiatric injury based on QME Dr. McDonald's opinion. Defendant sought reconsideration, arguing the QME relied on an inaccurate history and asserting a 'good faith personnel action' defense supported by supervisor testimony. The Appeals Board found that although the good faith personnel action defense was submitted for decision, neither the Opinion on Decision nor the WCJ's Report contained the required detailed Rolda analysis. The Board rescinded the Findings and Award and returned the matter to the WCJ to issue a new decision containing the full Rolda analysis under the section 3202.5 preponderance standard.