JOSE RAMIREZ vs. QUALITY SCALES UNLIMITED, INSURANCE COMPANY OF THE WEST

Applicant Jose Ramirez sought reconsideration of a Findings and Awards (F&A) issued on December 17, 2024, which determined a 40% permanent disability (PD) rating, notably excluding any psychiatric component. Ramirez contended that this rating was inadequate, citing inconsistent PQME reports with higher PD ratings, unaddressed surgical scars, the omission of a psychiatric component despite claims of a catastrophic injury, and newly discovered evidence. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) granted reconsideration, ruling that the Workers' Compensation Judge's (WCJ) initial decision lacked sufficient explanation for the PD rating and the catastrophic injury determination. Additionally, the WCAB found that the WCJ improperly relied on an inadmissible consultative rating determination. As a result, the WCAB amended the F&A to defer the issues of permanent disability impairment rating and attorney's fees, while otherwise affirming the WCJ's decision.