Hayes v. School

This workers' compensation appeal has been referred to the Special Workers' Compensation Appeals Panel of the Supreme Court in accordance with Tenn. Code Ann. _ 5-6-225(e)(3) for hearing and reporting to the Supreme Court of findings of fact and conclusions of law. The employer, School Calendar Company, has perfected this appeal from a decision of the trial court to award the employee, Alma Joyce Hayes, 2% permanent partial disability benefits to each arm. The employer insists the employee's injury was not work-related and that the claim was not filed within the one year statute of limitations period. The employee contends the award is not adequate and should be increased. Alma Joyce Hayes began working for School Calendar Company in 1988 and was employed as a proofreader. She testified her duties required her to use her hands and wrists repetitively. She first began experiencing problems with her hands and arms during July, 1994, thinking her condition was due to arthritis. She continued working until about February 17, 1995, when she was laid-off due to a reduction in the company's workload. While on lay-off status, she decided to see a doctor about her condition. On about June 28, 1995, Dr. Hovis examined her and told her she had bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome and that he was of the opinion her condition was work-related. She immediately notified her employer and a company representative told her the company did not feel responsible for her condition since she no longer worked for them. This suit for workers' compensation benefits was filed on August 3, 1995. Dr. Hovis performed surgery on the right hand on August 4, 1995, and surgery on the left hand on August 11, 1995. The circuit judge was faced with conflicting evidence on the causation question. The only expert medical testimony was presented by deposition from two orthopedic surgeons, Dr. William M. Hovis and Dr. M.J. Gutch. Dr. Hovis originally was of the opinion her condition was the result of her work duties based upon the history given. He later changed his opinion when he was shown a videotape depicting the nature and type of work she usually performed. 2