Alonzo Padilla — ADJ12812042

Applicant Alonzo Padilla, a correctional officer at North Kern State Prison, sustained an admitted industrial injury to his heart in the form of hypertensive heart disease. PQME Dr. Robert Noriega, an internal medicine examiner, found 36% WPI under Class 3 of Table 4-2 of Chapter 4.1 of the AMA Guides based on examination, record review, and echocardiograms showing left ventricular hypertrophy. Defendant's claims adjuster repeatedly requested a written prescription for a cardiac MRI, and Defendant argued that without a cardiac MRI the PQME opinion was not substantial medical evidence. The WCJ found Dr. Noriega's reporting constituted substantial medical evidence and that the AMA Guides made no reference to a cardiac MRI. The WCAB adopted and incorporated the WCJ's report and denied reconsideration.