Sanchez v. City of Orlando: 43% Heart Impairment Rating Denied, Interest Awarded

In Sanchez v. City of Orlando Police Department/Relation Insurance Services of Florida, OJCC Case No. 24-007250JEJ, the claimant sought impairment income benefits based on his independent medical examiner's combined 43% rating for compensable hypertension and atrial fibrillation. The employer/carrier had already paid benefits based on a 15% rating for atrial fibrillation.

Judge Jill E. Jacobs rejected the higher ratings. Applying the 1996 Florida Uniform Permanent Impairment Rating Schedule, the JCC found a 0% rating for hypertension because the claimant's diastolic readings were below 90, he had no symptoms, and there was no qualifying evidence of end-organ involvement. The judge also found that 15%, rather than 18%, was the appropriate rating for atrial fibrillation.

The JCC denied the claim for benefits based on the 43% combined rating, but awarded interest on the 15% impairment benefits already paid, retroactive to the December 9, 2025 petition. Employer/carrier-paid attorney's fees and costs were granted as to that interest award, with jurisdiction reserved as to amount.

Source: Compensation Order