What must be included in admissible reports to a WCJ to determine compensability?

In determining the compensability of a workers' compensation claim, it is essential to present admissible reports that provide a thorough assessment of the employee's condition and the relationship of that condition to the work injury. A properly acquired Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) report, along with the primary treating physician's records, is crucial for several reasons.

First, the QME's evaluation offers an expert opinion on the medical aspects of the injury, including diagnosis, treatment options, and the extent of any disability. This is important for establishing that the medical condition is work-related. The primary treating physician's records provide a foundational understanding of the employee's history, treatment progress, and the ongoing care that the employee has received. Together, these sources of information collectively establish a comprehensive view of the medical circumstances surrounding the injury, which the Workers' Compensation Judge (WCJ) needs to make an informed determination regarding compensability.

While other elements such as the employee’s personal statement, historical work history, and employer responses may complement the case, they do not carry the same weight in medical veracity and expertise as the QME and treating physician records. These documents are critical in painting a clear picture of the interplay between the medical condition and the worker's compensation claim,