Hudson III, John

Applicant John Hudson III, a communications coordinator, claimed a cumulative trauma injury (July 14, 2021 to July 14, 2022) to multiple body parts. The WCJ found 86 percent permanent disability with a life pension, no apportionment, and a need for future medical care, relying on orthopedic PQME Dr. James Esch's thirteen reports and two depositions. Defendant sought reconsideration, arguing the QME reports were not substantial medical evidence and that it was prejudiced by being denied the opportunity to complete discovery. The WCAB denied reconsideration, holding the QME's opinions constituted substantial medical evidence, that the QME's failure to review applicant's deposition transcript did not undermine substantiality given an adequate history and record review, and that defendant failed to meet its burden of proof on apportionment.