2018 Workers' Compensation Synopses
2018 Workers' Compensation Appeal Decisions December 2018 Fix v. Polk County, Iowa , No. 5051755 (App. Dec. 28, 2018) - At hearing, claimant was found to have established a cumulative injury and was given a 20% industrial award (Elliott). Defendant appeals and on appeal, the commissioner's designee (Palmer) affirms the decision with minimal additional analysis. Defendant had argued the claimant was not a credible witness, but the appeal noted that determinations of the hearing deputy were to be provided deference. 25 months from arbitration to hearing decision. Marrs v. Regional Care Hospital Partners, Inc. , No. 5052161 (App. Dec. 21, 2018) - Claimant was found eligible for a running award of healing period benefits at a rate of $559.49 for an injury to the neck and spine. Penalty benefits in the amount of $50,000 were also awarded (McElderry). On appeal, the commissioner affirms the award of a running healing period at a rate of $559.49, but reduces the pena