Falcon Farms v Espinoza

This February 23, 2012 1DCA decision affirmed in part and reversed in part Judge Hill's JCC decision.

The issue at the JCC trial was a change in primary care physician. The JCC awarded the change of physician but also denied compensability of the accident.

Both parties appealed. The E/C argued that the Claimant was not entitled to a change of physician because her condition was non-occupational.

The Claimant cross-appealed arguing that the JCC’s finding of noncompensability is legally inconsistent with the  award of a change of physician. 

The 1DCA addressed the cross-appeal first. The 1DCA affirmed the JCC's decision denying compensability of the accident. The 1DCA indicated that the claimant did not show that the JCC erred in ruling the accident not compensable.

"The sole basis of Claimant’s challenge on compensability is that the order is incongruous with the award of a change of physician. Claimant did not present this argument to the JCC – not even on rehearing, once the basis of the JCC’s ruling was clear; therefore, Claimant did not preserve such an error for appellate review".

The 1DCA then addressed the E/C's argument. The 1DCA indicated that since the accident was not compensable, the E/C’s argument on appeal has merit.

The 1DCA utilized section 440.13(2)(f) as the basis for their decision and indicated that the plain language of the statute reads it "requires the injury to be a "work-related injury." The JCC found the Claimant presented no "persuasive medical evidence" that an injury arose out of employment, and Claimant did not challenge that finding.

The 1DCA reversed the JCC decision as it relates to awarding a change of physician.

Click here to see the 1DCA opinions