Reid v. Secretary of Health and Human Services

In the United States Court of Federal Claims

OFFICE OF SPECIAL MASTERS No. 13-640V Filed: October 22, 2014 [Not to be published]

*********************** JEFFREY A REID *

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Petitioner, * Dismissal; Hep B; v. * Multiple Sclerosis (“MS”)

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SECRETARY OF HEALTH * AND HUMAN SERVICES, *

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Respondent. *

*********************** Gerald L. Timmerwilke, Blickhan, Timmerwilke, Woodworth & Larson, Quincy, IL for petitioner.

Darryl R.Wishard, U.S. Dept. of Justice, Washington, DC for respondent.

DECISION1

Gowen, Special Master:

On September 3, 2013, petitioner filed a petition for Vaccine Compensation in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program [“the Program”],2 alleging that a series of Hepatitis B vaccinations on August 5, 2008, September 13, 2009, and September 26, 2010 caused him to develop Multiple Sclerosis (“MS”). Petition at ¶¶ 4, 8. The information in the record, however, does not show entitlement to an award under the Program. On October 20, 2014, petitioner moved for a decision dismissing his petition.

To receive compensation under the Program, petitioner must prove either 1) that he suffered a “Table Injury”—i.e., an injury falling within the Vaccine Injury Table— corresponding to one or more of his vaccinations, or 2) that he suffered an injury that was actually caused by a vaccine or vaccines. See §§ 13(a)(1)(A) and 11(c)(1). An examination of the record did not uncover any evidence that petitioner suffered a “Table Injury.” Further, the record does not contain persuasive evidence indicating that petitioner’s alleged injury was caused by the Hepatitis B vaccine.

Under the Act, petitioner may not be given a Program award based solely on the petitioner’s claims alone. Rather, the petition must be supported by either medical records or by the opinion of a competent physician. § 13(a)(1). In this case, because there are insufficient medical records supporting petitioner’s claim, a medical opinion must be offered in support. Petitioner, however, has offered no such opinion that supports a finding of entitlement.

Accordingly, it is clear from the record in this case that petitioner has failed to demonstrate either that he suffered a “Table Injury” or that his injuries were “actually caused” by a vaccination. Thus, this case is dismissed for insufficient proof. The Clerk shall enter judgment accordingly.

IT IS SO ORDERED. s/ Thomas L. Gowen Thomas L. Gowen Special Master