Opinion ID: 2996434
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Whether Ray established pneumoconiosis

Text: We now consider whether Ray adequately demon- strated that he suffered from pneumoconiosis. Proof of pneumoconiosis may entail any of the following: 1) X-ray evidence; 2) biopsy evidence; 3) proof of complicated pneumoconiosis under 20 C.F.R. §§ 718.304-306; or 4) reasoned and documented medical opinion evidence notwithstanding a negative X-ray reading. 20 C.F.R. § 718.202(a)(1)-(4) (2003). We focus on the ALJ’s determination that Ray proved he suffered from pneumoconiosis through medical opinion evidence. In concluding that Ray suffered from pneumoconiosis, the ALJ examined the reports of Drs. Myers, Sanjabi, Rao, Thompson, and Houser, all of whom diagnosed Ray with pneumoconiosis. These reports, when considered as a whole, took into account the various X-ray readings and tests Ray underwent as well as his physical symptoms and medical and work history. Only Dr. Tuteur’s opinion was contrary. The ALJ discredited his opinion for the reasons discussed above, and we see no reason to overturn that finding. Summers, 272 F.3d at 483. Kennellis’ argument boils down to a claim that the ALJ weighed the medical opinions improperly and that Dr. Tuteur’s negative conclusions are more persuasive. As we noted above, making credibility determinations and resolving inconsistencies in the evidence is within the sole province of the ALJ. Id.; Meyer, 894 F.2d at 906. We find, therefore, that Ray adequately demonstrated that he suffered from pneumoconiosis. No. 02-1758 11