Supreme Court Upholds Authorization of Pain Management Consultation for Worker

The West Virginia Supreme Court upheld the authorization of a pain management consultation for an injured worker. Case: Murray American Energy Inc. v. Stapel, No. 22-923, 08/01/2024, published. Facts: Sean Stapel worked for Murray American Energy Inc. He established a workers’ compensation claim and then requested authorization for a pain management consultation. A claims administrator for Murray American’s insurance carrier denied the request. Procedural history: The Office of Judges reversed the claims administrator’s denial. The Intermediate Court of Appeals of West Vi...