FROM: Barbara Hannah, Chief Counsel
SUBJECT: 2026 Medical Advisor Panel and Hearing Officer Panel
RECOMMENDATION:
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Approve and adopt the 2026 Medical Advisor Panel and Hearing Officer Panel.
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BACKGROUND:
Annually, the Board reviews, considers, and determines the members of the Hearing Officer Panel and Medical Advisor Panel for the upcoming calendar year.
Medical Advisor Panel
SBCERA relies on independent medical advisors to provide expert clinical evaluations in disability retirement cases. Their medical opinions help ensure that disability determinations are accurate, consistent, and based on sound medical principals.
Medical advisors review medical records, assess diagnoses and functional limitations, and determine whether a member’s condition meets SBCERA’s standards for disability. Their evaluations form an essential part of the evidence the Board uses in making its decisions.
Because of this responsibility, medical advisors must demonstrate strong clinical judgment, objectivity, and a solid understanding of SBCERA’s disability requirements. Their work must be thorough, impartial, and aligned with SBCERA’s policies and standards.
Based on the above, staff recommends approving the 2026 Medical Advisor Panel listed in Exhibit A.
Hearing Officer Panel
SBCERA utilizes a panel of independent hearing officers to conduct administrative hearings for disability retirement cases and benefit-related appeals. These hearing officers play a critical role in ensuring that members receive a fair, impartial, and procedurally sound review of disputed matters.
In disability retirement proceedings, hearing officers are responsible for evaluating evidence, assessing witness credibility, and issuing proposed findings of fact and recommended decisions for the Board’s consideration. Their work directly impacts the integrity of the disability evaluation process and the Board’s ability to rely on accurate, well-reasoned recommendations.
Similarly, in benefit appeals, hearing officers must apply SBCERA’s governing statutes, regulations, and policies correctly and consistently. These decisions often involve complex factual and legal issues, and the Board depends on hearing officers to adhere strictly to established procedures and to operate within the scope of authority granted to them.
Given this responsibility, it is essential that individuals serving on SBCERA’s Hearing Officer Panel demonstrate sound judgment, procedural competence, and a clear understanding of SBCERA’s administrative framework.
Therefore, staff recommends approving the 2026 Hearing Officer Panel listed in Exhibit A.
Although staff is not recommending reappointment of two current hearing officers to the 2026 panel, that action does not affect their authority in cases already assigned to them. Under the Procedures, a hearing officer retains jurisdiction for 180 days from assignment. Therefore, the hearing officers may continue beyond the panel term as needed to complete the ongoing hearings. Accordingly, they remain authorized to preside over and finish their current matters even if not on the 2026 panel.
BUDGET IMPACT:
Costs for this item are included in the current year administrative budget.
STRATEGIC PLANNING GOAL/OBJECTIVE:
Operational Excellence & Efficiency
STAFF CONTACT:
Barbara Hannah
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A: 2026 Medical Advisor and Hearing Officers Panels
Exhibit B: Confidential Chief Counsel Memorandum