Court Opinion

ID: 4281487
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2018-06-05 20:44:55.482777+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T14:34:46.459158
License: Public Domain

[Cite as State ex rel. Farrell v. Indus. Comm., 2018-Ohio-2164.]

                              IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO

                                   TENTH APPELLATE DISTRICT

The State ex rel. Steven R. Farrell,                    :

                 Relator,                               :

v.                                                      :             No. 17AP-126

The Ohio Industrial Commission                          :          (REGULAR CALENDAR)
and
Tanknology Inc.,                                        :

                 Respondents.                           :

                                            D E C I S I O N

                                        Rendered on June 5, 2018

                 On brief: Spears & Associates Co., L.P.A., and David R.
                 Spears, for relator.

                 On brief: Michael DeWine, Attorney General, and Natalie J.
                 Tackett, for respondent Industrial Commission of Ohio.

                                   IN MANDAMUS
                    ON OBJECTIONS TO THE MAGISTRATE'S DECISION

LUPER SCHUSTER, J.
        {¶ 1} Relator, Steven R. Farrell, initiated this original action requesting a writ of
mandamus ordering respondent, Industrial Commission of Ohio ("commission"), to vacate
the November 17, 2016 order of its staff hearing officer ("SHO") denying his application for
permanent total disability ("PTD") compensation and to enter an order granting his
application.
        {¶ 2} This court referred the matter to a magistrate pursuant to Civ.R. 53(C) and
Loc.R. 13(M) of the Tenth District Court of Appeals. The magistrate rendered a decision
No. 17AP-126                                                                                2

that includes findings of fact and conclusions of law. The magistrate's decision, which is
appended hereto, recommends this court deny Farrell's request for a writ of mandamus.
       {¶ 3} Farrell has filed objections to the magistrate's decision. Therefore, we must
independently review the decision to ascertain whether "the magistrate has properly
determined the factual issues and appropriately applied the law." Civ.R. 53(D)(4)(d).
Farrell does not challenge the magistrate's recitation of the pertinent facts; however, he
objects to the magistrate's conclusion that the commission did not abuse its discretion in
denying his application for PTD compensation. More specifically, Farrell asserts the
doctrine of stare decisis operates to compel the commission to conclude he is not capable
of sustained remunerative employment.
       {¶ 4} This court will not determine that the commission abused its discretion in
denying an application for PTD compensation when there is some evidence in the record to
support the commission's finding. State ex rel. Rouch v. Eagle Tool & Machine Co., 26
Ohio St. 3d 197, 198 (1986). The some evidence standard "reflects the established principle
that the commission is in the best position to determine the weight and credibility of the
evidence and disputed facts." State ex rel. Woolum v. Indus. Comm., 10th Dist. No. 02AP-
780, 2003-Ohio-3336, ¶ 4, citing State ex rel. Pavis v. Gen. Motors Corp., B.O.C. Group,
65 Ohio St. 3d 30, 33 (1992).
       {¶ 5} In denying Farrell's application for PTD compensation, the commission
relied on the report of Stephen Halmi, Psy.D., accepting his opinion that Farrell "is capable
of performing work in a position with the same or routine daily expectations within a
supportive environment." (Nov. 17, 2016 SHO Decision at 2.) However, Farrell moved for
reconsideration on the grounds that the commission, in a separate and wholly unrelated
decision, granted a different injured worker's application for PTD where Dr. Halmi
rendered an opinion with nearly identical language as the opinion he rendered in Farrell's
case. In the unrelated case, the commission concluded that, despite Dr. Halmi's stated
conclusion that the injured worker would be capable of performing work in a low to
moderate stress position, "the restrictions Dr. Halmi specified in his report are so extensive
and severe as to constitute in reality an opinion the Injured Worker is not capable of
sustained remunerative employment." (Ex. A at 2, attached to Dec. 21, 2016 Mot. for
Recons.)
No. 17AP-126                                                                                  3

       {¶ 6} Farrell now argues that because the opinions rendered by Dr. Halmi in the
two cases are nearly identical, the doctrine of stare decisis compels the commission to reach
the same conclusion in both his case and the case of the unrelated worker. In considering
Farrell's stare decisis argument, the magistrate concluded stare decisis did not compel this
court to grant Farrell's requested writ.       However, in reaching that conclusion, the
magistrate opined the commission erroneously used Dr. Halmi's opinion in the unrelated
case in order to grant the unrelated injured worker's application for PTD benefits. Because
that former case was not before the magistrate and is not before the court at this time, it
was error for the magistrate to render an opinion on the propriety of the commission's
reliance on Dr. Halmi's opinion in that unrelated case.
       {¶ 7} Despite the magistrate's error in opining on the commission's separate
unrelated case, we nonetheless agree with the magistrate that the doctrine of stare decisis
does not compel us to issue Farrell's requested writ of mandamus in this case. According
to the doctrine of stare decisis, "courts follow 'controlling precedent, thus creating stability
and predictability in our legal system.' " Rural Health Collaborative of S. Ohio, Inc. v.
Testa, 145 Ohio St. 3d 430, 2016-Ohio-508, ¶ 38, quoting Westfield Ins. Co. v. Galatis, 100
Ohio St. 3d 216, 2003-Ohio-5849, ¶ 1. However, as the Supreme Court of Ohio has noted,
"stare decisis typically applies to principles of law, not findings of fact." Rural Health
Collaborative of S. Ohio, Inc. at ¶ 38, citing State v. Bethel, 10th Dist. No. 07AP-810, 2008-
Ohio-2697, ¶ 26 ("[s]tare decisis has two aspects: (1) that in the absence of overriding
considerations courts will adhere to its [sic] own previously announced principles of law;
and (2) that courts are bound by and must follow decisions of a reviewing court that has
decided the same issue"); Terrell v. Williams, 10th Dist. No. 79AP-16 (May 24, 1979)
(stating stare decisis is "based upon following controlling legal principals [sic] from former
judgments," and is "not applicable where the prior case decided factual matters").
       {¶ 8} To conclude that the commission must use Dr. Halmi's report to determine
Farrell is entitled to PTD would be to ignore the myriad factual intricacies at play in both
Farrell's case and the case of the unrelated injured worker. Both decisions involve heavily
fact-dependent determinations by the commission, and it is the commission's role, in each
case it evaluates, to determine the appropriate weight given to the evidence before it. See
State ex rel. Moss v. Indus. Comm., 75 Ohio St. 3d 414 (1996) (noting the commission is the
No. 17AP-126                                                                                  4

"exclusive evaluator of disability" and the courts will not reevaluate and reweigh the
evidence before the commission); and State ex rel. Teece v. Indus. Comm., 68 Ohio St. 2d
165, 169 (1981) ("[q]uestions of credibility and the weight to be given evidence are clearly
within the Commission's discretionary powers of fact-finding"). Thus, because we agree
with the magistrate that the doctrine of stare decisis does not compel the commission to
grant Farrell's application for PTD, we reject Farrell's challenge to the magistrate's decision.
       {¶ 9} Following our independent review of the record pursuant to Civ.R. 53, we find
the magistrate correctly determined Farrell is not entitled to the requested writ of
mandamus. Accordingly, we adopt the magistrate's factual findings, and, to the extent
outlined above, adopt the magistrate's conclusions of law as modified. We, therefore,
overrule Farrell's objections to the magistrate's decision and deny his request for a writ of
mandamus.
                                           Objections overruled; writ of mandamus denied.

                         BROWN, P.J., and BRUNNER, J., concur.
No. 17AP-126                                                                        5

                                        APPENDIX

                          IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO

                              TENTH APPELLATE DISTRICT

The State ex rel. Steven R. Farrell,         :

               Relator,                      :

v.                                           :                   No. 17AP-126

The Ohio Industrial Commission               :                (REGULAR CALENDAR)
and
Tanknology Inc.,                             :

               Respondents.                  :

                          MAGISTRATE'S DECISION

                               Rendered on January 18, 2018

               Spears & Associates Co., L.P.A., and David R. Spears, for
               relator.

               Michael DeWine, Attorney General, and Natalie J. Tackett, for
               respondent Industrial Commission of Ohio.

                                       IN MANDAMUS

       {¶ 10} In this original action, relator, Steven R. Farrell, requests a writ of
mandamus ordering respondent Industrial Commission of Ohio ("commission") to vacate
the November 17, 2016 order of its staff hearing officer ("SHO") that denies his
application for permanent total disability ("PTD") compensation, and to enter an order
granting the application.
Findings of Fact:
       {¶ 11} 1. On March 11, 2002, relator injured his lower back while employed as a
technician for respondent Tanknology Inc., a state-fund employer. The injury occurred
when relator was moving a heavy manway cover.
No. 17AP-126                                                                          6

      {¶ 12} 2. The industrial claim (No. 02-333346) is allowed for:
               Sprain lumbosacral; protruding disc L3-L4; aggravation pre-
               existing annular tears L2-3, L3-4, and L4-5; depressive
               disorder.

      {¶ 13} 3. On November 6, 2014, at the request of the Ohio Bureau of Workers'
Compensation ("bureau"), relator was examined by psychiatrist James R. Hawkins, M.D.
In his ten-page narrative report, Dr. Hawkins opined that relator has a depressive
disorder caused by the industrial injury. Dr. Hawkins also opined that the psychological
condition prevents relator's return to his former position of employment.
      {¶ 14} 4. On December 9, 2014, the bureau mailed an order additionally allowing
the claim for "depressive disorder NEC." The bureau order also awarded temporary total
disability ("TTD") compensation based on the report of Dr. Hawkins.
      {¶ 15} 5. Following a March 2, 2016 hearing, an SHO issued an order terminating
TTD compensation effective November 20, 2015 on grounds that the allowed
psychological condition has reached maximum medical improvement ("MMI").
      {¶ 16} 6. Earlier, on January 28, 2016, at relator's request, he was examined by
clinical psychologist Regina McKinney, Psy.D. In her two-page narrative report, dated
February 4, 2016, Dr. McKinney opined:
               It is my opinion based on a reasonable degree of psychological
               certainty that Mr. Farrell is permanently and totally disabled
               from all forms of sustained remunerative employment based
               solely upon the allowed psychological condition in his claim.
               His symptoms of depression are severe and cause significant
               occupational and social impairment. Evaluation findings
               indicate that his symptoms of depression prohibit him from
               even sedentary type positions. He lacks motivation to
               maintain consistent attendance and would likely have
               significant difficulty focusing to complete tasks. He appears to
               be easily overwhelmed and easily angered. He had
               altercations at work and his symptoms of depression would
               interfere with his ability to maintain productive work
               relationships. He would likely have difficulty sustaining
               attention and concentration even when working
               independently. It would be difficult for him to multi-task and
               complete job tasks in a timely fashion.
No. 17AP-126                                                                          7

      {¶ 17} 7. On March 9, 2016, relator filed an application for PTD compensation. In
support, relator submitted the February 4, 2016 report of Dr. McKinney.
      {¶ 18} 8. On April 26, 2016, at the commission's request, relator was examined by
psychologist Stephen W. Halmi, Psy.D. In his 11-page narrative report, Dr. Halmi opined:
               Based on this examination, it is my opinion that Mr. Farrell
               has reached MMI for his allowed psychological condition of
               Depressive Disorder. My opinion is based on several factors.
               For example, there is no evidence, based on Mr. Farrell's self-
               report, that his depression has improved significantly with the
               utilization of outpatient psychotherapy and psychotropic
               medication. Objective test results indicate that he remains
               depressed. It is my opinion that his depression is maintained
               by his belief that he is incapable of changing his circumstances
               as well as by the fact that his physical restrictions prevent him
               from engaging in productive and/or enjoyable activities. It is
               my opinion that his belief that he is helpless and hopeless to
               influence his life maintains his depression. He also remains
               miserable because of his chronic pain.

               It is my opinion that Mr. Farrell's Depression results in a
               moderate impairment in his overall functioning. The final
               percentage of impairment is an average of the percentages of
               impairment for the four areas of functioning listed above (35%
               + 35% + 35% + 35%=140%; 140%/4=35%). Thus, it is my
               opinion that his Depressive Disorder results in a 35% Whole
               Person Impairment (WPI) as referenced in the AMA Guides
               to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment-Fifth Edition.

               ***

               Any mention of impairment is based on his allowed
               psychological condition of Depressive Disorder. It is my
               opinion that Mr. Farrell's ability to carry out simple, one and
               two step instructions is not impaired. It is my opinion that his
               ability to understand and remember detailed instructions that
               do not surpass his intellectual abilities is moderately
               impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to carry out detailed
               instructions and maintain adequate attention and
               concentration for extended periods of time is moderately
               impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to work within a
               schedule, maintain attendance, and be punctual without
               impairment from his psychological condition is moderately
               impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to work with or close
               to others without being distracted by them is moderately
No. 17AP-126                                                                             8

               impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to work quickly and
               efficiently, meet a deadline, and complete a normal workday
               and work week without interruption is moderately impaired.
               It is my opinion that his ability to work at a consistent pace
               without an unreasonable number and length of breaks is
               moderately impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to
               interact with the general public is mildly impaired. It is my
               opinion that his ability to accept instructions, respond
               appropriately to criticism from supervisors, and his ability to
               get along with coworkers without being distracted by them is
               moderately impaired. It is my opinion that his ability to
               maintain socially appropriate behavior and maintain the basic
               standard of cleanliness and grooming is mildly impaired. It is
               my opinion that his ability to respond appropriately to
               changes at work, set realistic goals, and make plans
               independently of others is moderately impaired. Based on
               these impairments, it is my opinion that Mr. Farrell would be
               capable of working in a low to moderate stress position.
               Because of his depressive symptoms, it is my opinion that he
               would initially work best in a relatively simple job in which he
               was required to complete straight forward tasks. This would
               help him develop a sense of mastery and improve his self-
               esteem. He would likely work best in a predictable job in
               which there were little changes in tasks and expectations from
               day to day. Because of his concentration problems, clear
               guidelines and protocols, possibly written out and posted,
               would likely benefit him. He would work best if afforded
               flexibility with regard to pace of work, timing of breaks, exact
               hours worked, and possibly days worked, to accommodate his
               fluctuation in energy level. Because of his irritability and
               anhedonia, it would be best if he did not work with the general
               public, at least initially. It would also be in his best interest if
               his supervisor was aware of his depression and supportive of
               the accommodations needed for him to be a successful
               employee. At this time, it is my opinion that he could not work
               competitively in a fast paced environment or in a job that
               required quotas and/or a high demands for productivity and
               quick turnarounds. In summary, he would work best in a
               routine, predictable job with consistent expectations from day
               to day in a highly supportive work environment.

      {¶ 19} 9. On May 19, 2016, Dr. Halmi completed a form captioned "Occupational
Activity Assessment, Mental & Behavioral Examination."               On the form, Dr. Halmi
indicated by his mark "[t]his Injured Worker is capable of work with the
No. 17AP-126                                                                             9

limitation(s)/modification(s) noted below." In the space provided, Dr. Halmi wrote "see
report."
      {¶ 20} 10. Earlier, on May 4, 2016, at the commission's request, relator was
examined by Steven S. Wunder, M.D., who specializes in physical medicine and
rehabilitation. In his four-page narrative report dated May 4, 2016, Dr. Wunder opines:
               Based on the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent
               Impairment, Fifth Edition, for the recognized and allowed
               condition of a sprain, lumbosacral, that is zero percent to the
               whole person.

               For the allowances of protruding disc L3-L4; aggravation of
               pre-existing annular tears, L2-L3, L3-L4 and L4-L5, he would
               have a DRE category 3 impairment, that is 10 percent to the
               whole person.

               His combined impairment would be 10 percent to the whole
               person.

               ***

               The Physical Strength Rating form has been completed. He
               would be capable of a full range of light functional capacities.

      {¶ 21} 11. On May 4, 2016, Dr. Wunder completed a "Physical Strength Rating"
form. On the form, Dr. Halmi indicated by his mark that relator is capable of "light work."
      {¶ 22} 12. Following a November 17, 2016 hearing, an SHO issued an order
denying relator's PTD application. The order states reliance on the medical reports of
Drs. Wunder and Halmi in determining residual functional capacity. Ohio Adm.Code
4121-3-34(B)(4). The SHO found it necessary to consider the non-medical factors. The
SHO's order states:
               The Injured Worker is a 59 year old male with a high school
               education. He has a varied work history. For five years (1978-
               1984) he worked as a laborer on an assembly line. Next, he
               worked as a carpenter for both residential and commercial
               construction for 16 years (1984-2000). For two years he
               worked as a yardman, operating both forklifts and overhead
               cranes (2000-2002). From 2000 to 2002 the Injured Worker
               worked cleaning underground storage tanks. He was injured
               on 03/11/2002 when he picked up a manway cover, weighing
               50 to 75 pounds, pulling his lower back. The claim was initially
No. 17AP-126                                                                      10

               recognized for lumbosacral sprain. In 2003 the protruding
               L3-4 disc was added to the claim. The annular tears were
               allowed by way of aggravation in 2005. Treatment for the low
               back has been conservative, including physical therapy,
               chiropractic treatment and the medications Neurontin,
               Flexeril and Ibuprofen.

               Following the work injury, the Injured Worker has twice
               successfully completed a vocational rehabilitation program.
               Following his referral to vocational rehabilitation in 2005 the
               Injured Worker returned to work in July, 2006 as a
               compliance officer for a pain management physician. During
               his employment the Injured Worker underwent two year on-
               the-job training with Information Systems and Investigative
               Services, Ltd. In this position he performed verification of
               patient demographics; background checks and pill counts for
               patients; and participated in the performance of drug screens.
               The Injured Worker utilized a copier, computer scanner and
               some computer data entry. He worked in this capacity until
               2011, when the office closed. The Injured Worker participated
               in a three week job seeking skills training and eight weeks of
               job placement/development/job search program in 2012,
               finding employment as a monitor at Transitions, Inc. This
               employment met the physical restrictions provided by his
               physician of record Joseph Valli, D.C. of sitting and standing
               up to two hours a day; walking up to an hour; lifting and
               carrying limited to 20 pounds; occasional bending, squatting,
               crawling and reaching; no climbing; and no use of push/pull
               arm controls or repetitive use of leg controls. In this position
               the Injured Worker worked in a half-way house, monitoring
               paroled inmates. Duties of this position included walking
               flights of stairs, performing drug searches, and patting down
               the residents. He worked in this capacity for 21 months. He
               left this position due to having increased back pain and losing
               his patience with the residents.

               Following his departure from employment in July, 2014, the
               claim was amended in December, 2014 for depressive
               disorder. The Injured Worker received temporary total
               disability compensation until 11/20/2015, when his
               psychologist, Christopher Ward, Ph.D. opined the depression
               reached maximum medical improvement. The Injured
               Worker was referred to vocational rehabilitation in December,
               2015. He was found not to be a feasible candidate because he
               has the necessary skills to conduct a self-directed job search.
               Closure of his vocational rehabilitation file was affirmed by
No. 17AP-126                                                                    11

               Careworks due to the Injured Worker's psychologist
               indicating he was not ready to return to work. He has
               supportive therapy once a month with a therapist, Jennifer
               Conley, LISW, and Regina McKinney, Psy.D. and is prescribed
               Effexor by Christopher Rowe, M.D.

               Regina McKinney, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, examined
               the Injured Worker on 01/28/2016 with regard to his
               application for permanent total disability. She found that
               secondary to the allowed psychological condition the Injured
               Worker has limited attention and concentration, with testing
               scores indicating severe symptoms of depression. Dr.
               McKinney opined the Injured Worker's depressive symptoms
               render him unmotivated to maintain attendance and impair
               his ability to focus on completing tasks, even when working
               independently. These deficits, combined with being easily
               overwhelmed and angered, limit his ability to complete tasks
               on time and multi-task, resulting in an inability to perform
               even sedentary work. Dr. McKinney opined the Injured
               Worker is "permanently and totally disabled form all forms of
               sustained remunerative employment based solely upon the
               allowed psychological condition in his claim."

               Steven Wunder, M.D., a physical medicine and rehabilitation
               specialist, examined the Injured Worker on 05/04/2016
               regarding the allowed physical conditions and the permanent
               total disability issue. Based on his examination findings, he
               opined the Injured Worker retains the physical ability to
               engage in light work without additional restriction.

               Stephen Halmi, Psy.D. performed a mental and behavioral
               health assessment of the Injured Worker on 04/26/2016
               regarding the allowed psychological condition and the
               permanent total disability issue. He found the Injured Worker
               capable of working "in a low to moderate stress position." Dr.
               Halmi found moderate impairment in the Injured Worker's
               ability to: understand and remember detailed instructions;
               maintain adequate attention and concentration for an
               extended period of time; maintain a consistent pace of work;
               maintain a schedule, attendance and be punctual; work
               closely with other people without being distracted by them;
               get along with co-workers and supervisors regarding
               accepting instruction and criticism; and responding
               appropriately to changes, set realistic goals and
               independently plan. Mildly impaired abilities include
No. 17AP-126                                                                      12

               interacting with the general public and maintaining levels of
               basic hygiene.

               The Staff Hearing Officer accepts and finds persuasive the
               opinion of Dr. Wunder the Injured Worker is physically
               capable of performing light work. The Staff Hearing Officer
               also accepts and finds persuasive the opinion of Dr. Halmi the
               Injured Worker is capable of performing work in a position
               with the same or routine daily expectations within a
               supportive environment.

               The Staff Hearing Officer finds that the Injured Worker's age
               of 59 to be a neutral vocational factor. The Injured Worker has
               five to six years before attaining the generally accepted age of
               retirement (65 to 66 years of age). Additionally, the Staff
               Hearing Officer finds individuals of the Injured Worker's age
               possess sufficient time to pursue the acquisition of new job
               skills, at a minimum through on-the-job or short-term
               training that could enhance their potential for re-
               employment. The Injured Worker is a high school graduate.
               Per the IC-2 Application, he has the ability to read and write.
               He reports limited ability to perform basic math despite being
               employed for 16 years in the carpentry field. The Injured
               Worker's career path has involved heavy, medium, light and
               sedentary level work. The Injured Worker denies having
               computer skills, noting his work at the doctor's office was
               limited to inputting some data or scanning documents. He
               does not utilize the home computer due to both his reported
               lack of ability and interest. He does not own a smartphone.
               Despite his downplay of any abilities, the Injured Worker was
               able to successfully return to work twice after vocational
               rehabilitation. His work has been vocationally diverse and the
               Injured Worker has demonstrated resiliency in his ability to
               be employed. These are positive factors to consider when
               determining ability to return to the workforce. Moreover, the
               Injured Worker has experience working at a physician's office,
               a workplace ideally suited for routine work within a
               supportive environment. Since last working in 2014 and being
               found at maximum medical improvement in 2015 the Injured
               Worker has not attempted to seek any type of work. The
               Injured Worker presented to hearing well groomed and
               maintained eye contact when answering all questions posed.
               He provided detailed answers regarding his former jobs.

               As set forth in State ex rel. Speelman v. Indus. Comm., 73
               Ohio App.3d, 757 * * * (10th Dist.1992) and State ex rel.
No. 17AP-126                                                                        13

               Cunningham v. Indus. Comm., 91 Ohio St. 3d 261 * * * (2001)
               the Industrial Commission, when considering a claim for
               permanent total disability compensation, may consider not
               just the Injured Worker's past employment skills, but also
               those skills that may reasonably be developed. Given the
               Injured Worker's education, work history and involvement
               with vocational rehabilitation, the Staff Hearing Officer finds
               he is educational[ly] and vocationally capable of finding work
               and learning on-the-job skills to perform routine work within
               the light duty physical demand category.

               As stated in B.F. Goodrich Co. v. Indus. Comm., 73 Ohio St. 3d
525 * * * (1995), an award of permanent total disability
               compensation should be allowed only when there is no
               possibility for reemployment. As the Injured Worker has the
               residual functional [capacity] to perform light work activity,
               as described by Dr. Wunder and the residual
               mental/behavioral capacity to perform work, as described by
               Dr. Halmi, when considering the impairment arising from the
               allowed conditions; because the Injured Worker is qualified
               by age, education and literacy level to obtain and perform
               such work; and he has or retains the capacity to acquire new
               job skills, at least through informal means, that could enhance
               his potential for returning to the workforce, the Staff Hearing
               Officer concludes that the Injured Worker is capable of
               sustained remunerative employment and is not permanently
               totally disabled. Therefore, the IC-2 Application, filed
               03/09/2016, is denied.

      {¶ 23} 13. On December 21, 2016, relator moved for reconsideration of the SHO's
order of November 17, 2016. In support of reconsideration, relator submitted as an
exhibit a copy of a commission order issued in another industrial claim of an injured
worker whose name and claim number is redacted. Apparently, the three-member
commission order was issued following a November 1, 2016 commission hearing. The
order grants a request for reconsideration filed by the unidentified injured worker and
awards PTD compensation upon the exercise of continuing jurisdiction.
      {¶ 24} 14. In awarding PTD compensation in another industrial claim, the three-
member commission explains:
               It is the decision of the Commission to grant the Injured
               Worker's IC-2 Application for Compensation for Permanent
               Total Disability, filed 03/21/2016.
No. 17AP-126                                                                  14

               Permanent total disability compensation is hereby awarded
               from 02/01/2016, less any compensation which may have
               been previously awarded from said date, to continue without
               suspension unless future facts or circumstances should
               warrant the stopping of the award; and that payment be made
               pursuant to R.C. 4123.58(A).

               The Commission finds in a report dated 02/01/2016, based
               on an examination conducted on such date, Christopher
               Ward, Ph.D., the Injured Worker's examining psychologist,
               opined the Injured Worker is permanently and totally
               disabled as a result of the impairment arising from the
               allowed psychological condition of the claim.

               The Commission further finds in a report dated 06/02/2016,
               Stephen Halmi, Psy.D., a psychologist examining the Injured
               Worker at the Commission's request, opined when the
               impairment arising from the allowed psychological condition
               is considered, the Injured Worker would be capable of
               performing work in a low to moderate stress position.
               However, Dr. Halmi also specified a number of additional
               restrictions applicable to any employment the Injured Worker
               would undertake, as follows:

                     Because of his depressive symptoms, it is my
                     opinion that he would initially work best in a
                     relatively simple job in which he was required to
                     complete straight forward tasks . . . . He would
                     likely work best in a predictable job where there
                     were little changes in tasks and expectations
                     from day to day. Because of his concentration
                     problems, clear guidelines and protocols,
                     possibly written out and posted, would likely
                     benefit him.

                     He would work best if afforded flexibility with
                     regard to pace of work, timing of breaks, exact
                     hours worked, and possibly days worked to
                     accommodate his fluctuation in energy level.
                     Because of his irritability and anhedonia, it
                     would be best if he did not work with the general
                     public, at least initially. It would also be in his
                     best interest if his supervisor was aware of his
                     depression       and      supportive     of     the
                     accommodations needed for him to be a
                     successful employee. At this time, it is my
No. 17AP-126                                                                                15

                        opinion hat he could not work competitively in
                        a fast paced environment or in a job that
                        required quotas and/or high demands for
                        productivity and quick turnarounds . . . .

                 The Commission finds the restrictions Dr. Halmi specified in
                 his report are so extensive and severe as to constitute in reality
                 an opinion the Injured Worker is not capable of sustained
                 remunerative employment when the impairment arising from
                 the allowed psychological condition is considered, consistent
                 with the opinion of Dr. Ward in his 02/01/2016 report. As
                 such, the Commission finds persuasive Dr. Ward's opinion the
                 Injured Worker is permanently and totally disabled as a result
                 of the medical impairment arising from the allowed
                 psychological condition of the claim. Accordingly, the
                 Commission grants permanent total disability on a medical
                 impairment basis, consistent with State ex rel. Speelman v.
                 Indus. Comm., 73 Ohio App. 3d 757 * * * (1992), finding a
                 discussion of non-medical disability factors unnecessary.

                 The Commission finds the start date for the award of
                 permanent total disability compensation is 02/01/2016, the
                 date of the report from Dr. Ward certifying the Injured
                 Worker's permanent total disability status.

(Emphasis omitted.)

          {¶ 25} 15. On January 13, 2017, the three-member commission, splitting two-to-
one, denied relator's December 21, 2016 motion for reconsideration in the instant case.
          {¶ 26} 16. On February 17, 2017, relator, Steven R. Farrell, filed this mandamus
action.
Conclusions of Law:
          {¶ 27} The main issue is whether the doctrine of stare decisis compels this court to
issue a writ ordering the commission to treat the April 26, 2016 report of Dr. Halmi in the
instant claim in the same manner as the commission treated the June 2, 2016 report of
Dr. Halmi in the industrial claim of another injured worker.
          {¶ 28} Finding that the doctrine of stare decisis does not compel this court to issue
a writ in the instant claim, it is the magistrate's decision that this court deny relator's
request for a writ of mandamus, as more fully explained below.
No. 17AP-126                                                                               16

       {¶ 29} To begin, some observations are in order.           The commission's order
appended to relator's motion for reconsideration as Exhibit A ("Exhibit A order") states
reliance on the February 1, 2016 report of examining psychologist Christopher
Ward, Ph.D., in awarding PTD compensation based solely on the allowed psychological
condition. The start date for the PTD award is February 1, 2016, the date of Dr. Ward's
report. Thus, Dr. Ward's report fully supports the PTD award.
       {¶ 30} In the Exhibit A order, the commission in effect rewrites the conclusion of
Dr. Halmi's June 2, 2016 report. That is, the commission deletes Dr. Halmi's medical
opinion that the allowed psychological condition permits "work in a low to moderate
stress position" and substitutes the commission's opinion that "the restrictions Dr. Halmi
specified in his report are so extensive and severe as to constitute in reality an opinion the
Injured Worker is not capable of sustained remunerative employment."
       {¶ 31} While the commission and its hearing officers have the duty to determine
the weight and credibility to be given to the medical reports admitted into evidence, State
ex rel. Burley v. Coil Packing, Inc., 31 Ohio St. 3d 18, 21 (1987), they cannot render their
own opinion on a medical issue because they do not have medical expertise. State ex rel.
Yellow Freight Sys., Inc. v. Indus. Comm., 81 Ohio St. 3d 56, 58 (1998). State ex rel.
Barnett v. Indus. Comm., 10th Dist. No. 13AP-161, 2014-Ohio-311, ¶ 18.
       {¶ 32} Thus, in its Exhibit A order, the commission cannot rely on the rewritten
report of Dr. Halmi. It was improper for the commission to do so. State ex rel. Honda of
Am. Mfr., Inc. v. Indus. Comm., 10th Dist. No. 11AP-65, 2012-Ohio-1371; State ex rel.
Cleveland Browns Football Co., LLC v. Indus. Comm., 10th Dist. No. 10AP-564, 2011-
Ohio-5656.
       {¶ 33} Given that the commission had no authority to rewrite Dr. Halmi's June 2,
2016 report and then rely on the rewritten report to support the PTD award, this court
has no authority to issue a writ compelling the commission to repeat the error here.
       {¶ 34} Here, relator asserts the April 26, 2016 report of Dr. Halmi relied on by the
commission in the instant industrial claim is "identical" to the June 2, 2016 report of Dr.
Halmi that is quoted by the commission in the Exhibit A order regarding another
industrial claim. Based on his assertion that the April 26 and June 2, 2016 reports of Dr.
Halmi are "identical," relator concludes the reports must be treated the same by the
No. 17AP-126                                                                                17

commission in the two industrial claims. Relator argues that the doctrine of stare decisis
compels this result. Relator is incorrect. The doctrine of stare decisis does not compel
the result relator seeks through this mandamus action.
       {¶ 35} Under the legal doctrine of stare decisis, courts follow controlling
precedent, thereby creating stability and predictability in our legal system. State ex rel.
Davis v. Pub. Emps. Retirement Bd., 120 Ohio St. 3d 386, 2008-Ohio-6254, ¶ 38. The
Supreme Court of Ohio adheres to stare decisis as a means of thwarting the arbitrary
administration of justice as well as providing a clear rule of law by which the citizenry can
organize their affairs. Westfield Ins. Co. v. Galatis, 100 Ohio St. 3d 216, 2003-Ohio-5849,
¶ 43, citing State ex rel. Rocky River v. State Emp. Relations Bd., 43 Ohio St. 3d 1, 4-5
(1989). The doctrine is of fundamental importance to the rule of law. Id. at ¶ 44.
       {¶ 36} Stare decisis typically applies to principles of law, not findings of fact. Rural
Health Collaborative of S. Ohio, Inc. v. Testa, 145 Ohio St. 3d 430, 2016-Ohio-508, ¶ 38.
Relator seems to acknowledge this limitation of the doctrine when he argues:
               The policy of stare decisis generally involves decisions of legal
               precedent. In the instant case, the Industrial Commission
               issued an order on 12-3-16 finding that certain restrictions
               identified in a medical report from Stephen Halmi, Psy.D.
               were so severe and extensive as to constitute a finding that a
               Claimant was not capable of sustained remunerative
               employment. While this precedent would have applicability
               only in the limited cases where Dr. Halmi has rendered
               opinion identifying the exact restrictions set forth in the
               decision on 12-3-16, it clearly does have applicability to the
               factual situation now before the Court.

(Relator's Brief at 8.)

       {¶ 37} As earlier noted, Dr. Halmi authored the April 26, 2016 report relied on by
the commission in the instant claim following a November 17, 2016 hearing before an
SHO.
       {¶ 38} Earlier, as indicated by the Exhibit A order, following a November 1, 2016
hearing, the three-member commission granted reconsideration and awarded PTD
compensation based in part on a June 2, 2016 report from Dr. Halmi. Thus, on the date
of the November 17, 2016 hearing at issue in the instant claim, the commission had
No. 17AP-126                                                                               18

already awarded PTD compensation based in part on Dr. Halmi's June 2, 2016 report.
Relator asserts that, under these circumstances, the SHO at the November 17, 2016
hearing in the instant claim was compelled to follow the commission's previous treatment
of Dr. Halmi's report following the November 1, 2016 hearing.
      {¶ 39} It is clear that the doctrine of stare decisis has no application here. That is,
at the November 17, 2016 hearing in the instant claim, the SHO was not bound by the
decision of the three-member commission following the November 1, 2016 hearing.
Relator is endeavoring unsuccessfully to use the doctrine as to the factual findings of the
three-member commission order of November 1, 2016.
      {¶ 40} Accordingly, for all the above reasons, it is the magistrate's decision that this
court deny relator's request for a writ of mandamus.

                                               /S/ MAGISTRATE
                                               KENNETH W. MACKE

                               NOTICE TO THE PARTIES

               Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(a)(iii) provides that a party shall not assign as
               error on appeal the court's adoption of any factual finding or
               legal conclusion, whether or not specifically designated as a
               finding of fact or conclusion of law under Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(a)(ii),
               unless the party timely and specifically objects to that factual
               finding or legal conclusion as required by Civ.R. 53(D)(3)(b).