Larry Patterson v. Premier Medical Group, P. C.,

In this appeal, the appellants contend (1) the trial court erred in awarding disability benefits in light of the appellee's refusal to undergo carpal tunnel release surgery, (2) the trial judge erred in admitting into evidence and considering testimony of a vocational expert called by the appellee, and (3) the trial judge erred in awarding permanent total disability benefits for a scheduled injury. As discussed below, the panel has concluded the award of permanent partial disability benefits should be modified to one based on 1 percent to both arms.