Medical evidence on record
In most disputed cases, your exam and opinion will be the most important piece of medical evidence introduced at hearing. Why? Because when a claim involves a dispute over medical issues, a state-appointed medical examiner is required to examine the employee and file a written report. Except in the occasional case where the hearing judge determines that your report is inadequate, or the medical issues complex, your report and opinion will be the only medical evidence before the judge.
Under the law your report "shall constitute prima facie evidence of the matters contained therein." The hearing judge must adopt your opinion on all medical issues addressed by you. It is not an overstatement to say that your medical opinion is the most critical piece of evidence in the case. The outcome of the case will largely depend on your findings.