JCC Grants Neck and Back Care but Denies Disability Benefits After Forged Work Slip

Judge Mark A. Massey addressed Denise Doss’s June 11, 2025 workplace accident at Mavis Tire Supply, doing business as Tire Kingdom. The employer/carrier accepted the accident, and the dispute focused on claimed neck, back, shoulder, indemnity, average weekly wage, and medical benefits.

The JCC rejected the employer/carrier’s misrepresentation defense. Although the claimant had prior neck, back, and shoulder complaints and had answered no to prior neck and back problems on an intake form, the order found the record did not prove the required intent to obtain benefits through a false statement.

The indemnity claims were still denied. The order found no proof that the claimant had been placed on temporary total disability status, no uncompensated wage loss before termination, and no entitlement to temporary partial disability after termination because the claimant intentionally forged or fabricated a medical note and submitted it to the employer.

On medical compensability, the JCC granted the neck and lumbar claims based on Dr. Okafor’s diagnoses and major-contributing-cause opinion, and ordered authorization of the related treatment. The shoulder claim, average weekly wage adjustment, penalties, and interest were denied, while entitlement to employer/carrier-paid fees and costs was reserved as to amount.

Source: Compensation Order