CLAIM NO. E804513
CATHY J. EDGERTON, EMPLOYEE, CLAIMANT v. EDDIE H. WALKER — ATTORNEY AT LAW, EMPLOYER, RESPONDENT and STATE FARM INSURANCE, INSURANCE CARRIER, RESPONDENT Before the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission
OPINION FILED MAY 20, 1999
Upon review before the FULL COMMISSION in Little Rock, Pulaski County, Arkansas.
Claimant represented by STEPHEN M. SHARUM, Attorney at Law, Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Respondents represented by JIM TILLEY, Attorney at Law, Little Rock, Arkansas.
[1]
OPINION AND ORDER [2] Respondents appeal a November 16, 1998 interim order of the Administrative Law Judge finding that respondents are liable for the costs of a cervical MRI scan. [3] After our de novo review of the entire record, we find that a cervical MRI scan is reasonable and necessary and accordingly, affirm the order of the Administrative Law Judge. [4] Claimant is a legal secretary for the employer. She experienced symptoms in her upper extremities and respondents accepted her condition as compensable in February 1993. Claimant also experienced symptoms in her shoulder. She has been diagnosed as suffering from an over-use syndrome which is causally related to her job duties. Respondents paid for several diagnostic studies, as well as sporadic treatment (including prescription medication) for over five years before deciding to controvert this claim in its entirety. [5] Prior to the decision to controvert, respondents had claimant evaluated by Dr. William L. Griggs, with the neurology department at Holt-Krock Clinic. Dr. Griggs reported that in order to complete his evaluation, he needed a cervical MRI scan to determine whether claimant’s symptoms are originating in the cervical spine. Respondents have controverted this diagnostic study. [6] Based on respondents’ choice of Dr. Griggs to evaluate claimant’s condition, Dr. Griggs’ opinion that a cervical MRI scan is necessary to delineate the extent and nature of claimant’s condition, and the statement by Dr. Goodman, claimant’s treating physician, that he does not disagree with Dr. Griggs’ recommendation, we find that the cervical MRI scan is reasonable and necessary. See Laura Fairchild v.Kentucky Fried Chicken, Full Commission Opinion filed March 24, 1997 (
E511344). Accordingly, we affirm the order of the Administrative Law Judge finding that a cervical MRI scan is reasonable and necessary. [7] IT IS SO ORDERED. [8] _______________________________
ELDON F. COFFMAN, Chairman _______________________________ PAT WEST HUMPHREY, Commissioner [9] Commissioner Wilson dissents.