Arleen Keteles — ADJ13757266, ADJ13757284

Applicant, a sheriff technician for the County of Alameda, claimed a cumulative trauma injury from December 2017 through January 2018 to her right thumb, right wrist, right elbow, right upper extremity nerves, and left wrist. PQME Dr. Brose found 37% WPI with no apportionment, and the DEU rater issued an amended formal rating of 70% permanent disability based on the WCJ's instructions. Defendant sought reconsideration, arguing the F&A failed to comply with Labor Code section 5313 and that Dr. Brose's opinions were inconsistent with the AMA Guides and not substantial evidence, relying on the testimony of its private rater Brittany Dayes. The WCAB denied reconsideration, adopting the WCJ's Report, finding that Dr. Brose adequately explained his impairment ratings and that the defendant's private rater—who had no medical training—could not substitute her lay judgment on medical issues for the physician's opinion.