Cohen, Mordechai

Unrepresented applicant Mordechai Cohen sought removal of a WCJ order compelling his attendance at a medical examination with Dr. Sabsovich (the PQME) and also sought disqualification of the WCJ. Applicant argued the order issued improperly because his injuries are orthopedic and Dr. Sabsovich is not an orthopedic or spine doctor, and because the WCJ issued the order without reviewing medical documents or giving applicant an opportunity to respond to defendant's petition to compel. The Appeals Board found the WCJ's order issued without an adequate record or opportunity for the parties to provide evidence, violating due process. The Board granted the Petition for Removal, rescinded the September 27, 2024 order, and returned the matter to the trial level for further proceedings, noting that a notice of intention would have been the preferred procedure. The Board denied the Petition for Disqualification, finding applicant failed to allege facts establishing bias or an unqualified opinion on the merits.