Nevertheless, PMG went forward with Dr. Hightower's deposition (although, apparently, it never took the depositions of Yee-Sanchez or Dr. Duong). In response to Yee-Sanchez's letter to him, the PWCJ set a pre-trial conference, even though no application had yet been filed. Prior to the conference, PMG requested that the DEU issue a consultative rating of Dr. Duong's October 19, 2000 report. The DEU's consultative rating opined that the factors of permanent disability in Dr. Duong's October 19, 2000 report rated at 31%. However, the PWCJ took no action at that time, but instead suggested that the parties attempt to reach an informal resolution.

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