1997, Robinson submitted an LTD claim to Hartford, premised on shoulder pain and neck pain. (AR 1006-10.) She submitted an Attending Physician's Statement, dated October 14, 1997, from Dr. Alonzo J. Flores, her *1057 family practitioner, who diagnosed shoulder and neck pain, with symptoms first appearing on April 22, 1997. (AR 1009-10.) He found a Class 5 (severe) limitation of functional capacity. (AR 1010.) He concluded that Robinson was totally disabled, but would recover sufficiently to perform the duties of her position by December 8, 1997. (Id.)
5. Hartford obtained medical records from Dr. Flores, as well as Drs. Robert del Junco and Robert R. Beltran, both of whom were otolaryngologists (ENTs) who treated Robinson for a lesion of her left tonsil in 1997. (AR 926.)
6. Hartford approved Robinson's709.)
10. On November 7, 2001, Hartford arranged for an Independent Medical Examination ("IME") to be performed by Dr. David Drew Neer in order to assess Robinson's disability for Vocational Rehabilitation. Dr. Neer found that Robinson suffered from cervical spondylosis with significant spinal canal stenosis throughout. He stated that Robinson remained unable to perform on the job and that she was disabled. (AR 253-55.)
11. On November 13, 2001, Dr. Neer made a written addendum to the IME. He informed Hartford that he had reviewed all of Robinson's records and took them into account in forming his opinion as to her capability to work. He concluded, "[Robinson] is currently at maximum medical improvement and I foresee her restrictions to be of a permanent nature. . . ." (AR 252.) Moreover,