FAQ
How does the OWCP process function?
In the event of a workplace injury, the initiation of your case begins with the submission of a claim form through your employing agency. This serves as the starting point for your case, and depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for benefits such as medical care, lost wages, and a schedule award. Notably, there is no specified time limitation on the duration of benefits you can receive. OWCP's primary objective is to facilitate your return to the workforce, whether that means returning to your employing agency or transitioning into the private sector. In certain scenarios, OWCP may render a decision asserting your capability to earn a designated amount in a hypothetical job. Consequently, your benefits may be adjusted, even though no such job exists in reality. For individuals facing the likelihood of not fully recovering from their injury, there exists the potential qualification for a ""schedule award"" compensating for the loss of use of specific limbs or organs. Once OWCP approves your claim, the responsibility falls on them to substantiate any reduction or modification of your benefits. However, from a practical standpoint, it is imperative that you continue your injury treatment and ensure ongoing documentation from your physician(s) reaches OWCP. This diligence is crucial for maintaining your benefits for as long as you wish to receive them.
What is FECA?
FECA, or the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, is a comprehensive program that provides entitlements to federal employees who experience on-the-job injuries. Under FECA, eligible individuals are entitled to:
- Medical care
- Lost wages
- Schedule awards for permanent injuries to specific limbs or organs
While as a federal employee, you may already have health insurance through your job or pension, FECA stands out by eliminating co-pays. Moreover, unlike traditional health insurance which may impose limits on the amount of treatment allowed, FECA often offers more extensive coverage for physical therapy and other treatments. This expanded coverage aligns with the program's overarching goal of facilitating your return to some form of employment.
OWCP Medical Benefits
An employee is entitled to medical, surgical and hospital services and supplies needed for treatment of an injury as well astransportation for obtaining care. The injured employee has initial choice of physician and may select any qualified local physicianor hospital to provide necessary treatment or may use agency medical facilities if available. Except for referral by the attendingphysician, any change in treating physician aft er the initial choice must be authorized by OWCP. Otherwise, OWCP will not be liablefor the expenses of treatment. The term ""physician"" includes surgeons, osteopathic practitioners, podiatrists, dentists, clinical psychologists, optometrists andchiropractors within the scope of their practice as defined by State law. Payment for chiropractic services is limited to treatmentchirochiroconsisting of manual manipulation of the spine to correct a subluxation as demonstrated by x-ray to exist. If the physician selected has been excluded from participating in the Compensation Program the OWCP District Off ice will advise the employee of the exclusion and the need to select another physician.
What a federal employee should do when injured at work?
- Report to Supervisor: Every job-related injury should be reported to your supervisor as soon as possible. Injury in this case also means any illness or disease that is caused or aggravated by your employment as well as damage to medical braces, artificial limbs, and other prosthetic devices.
- Obtain Medical Care: Before you seek medical treatment for a traumatic injury, ask your supervisor to authorize medical treatment using Form CA-16. This form may be obtained by contacting your employing agency’s workers’ compensation personnel. Take this form with you when you seek medical treatment and provide it to the physician/hospital. You have the right to choose the physician you initially see for medical treatment. This may be a private physician or, if available, a local Federal medical officer/hospital. Emergency medical treatment may be obtained without prior authorization. Note that in occupational disease claims, Form CA-16 may not be issued without prior approval from the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).
- File Written Notice: Claim forms must be filed using the Employees’ Compensation Operations and Management Portal (ECOMP). Go to www.ecomp.dol.gov and register for an account. For traumatic injuries, file Form CA-1 within 30 days following the injury, and for occupational disease claims, file Form CA-2. Once you complete your portion of the claim form, it will be forwarded to your supervisor who will complete the supervisor’s portion before forwarding the form for review. You will receive claim status update emails as your claim form is processed. For help filing your claim, click the “HELP” icon found at the top right hand corner of the ECOMP website, and then click the “FECA Claimant-Injured Worker” link.
- Submit Claim for COP and/or Compensation For Wage Loss:
If you are disabled due to a traumatic injury, you may elect to use the continuation of pay (COP) benefit for a period not to exceed 45 calendar days or use leave. To be eligible for COP, you must submit a CA-1 within 30 days of the injury. If disabled and claiming COP, you must submit medical evidence supporting your disability to your employing agency within 10 workdays. If you are disabled beyond the COP period, are not entitled to COP, or are disabled due to an occupational disease, you may file a claim for compensation using Form CA-7 at www.ecomp.dol.gov or use leave. You will receive claim status update emails as your forms are processed. A claim for compensation for disability should be submitted as soon as possible after it is apparent that you are disabled and will enter a leave-without-pay status. - Medical Billing: Medical providers must be enrolled with OWCP’s medical billing contractor to obtain payment. All providers must submit bills on standard billing forms to the London, KY mailing address or online at owcpmed.dol.gov. The standard billing forms accepted by OWCP are OWCP-1500/HCFA 1500 for Physicians, physical therapists, labs, etc. and UB-92 for hospitals. Claimants may submit bills for reimbursement on forms OWCP-915 and 957.
- Contacting OWCP: If you have any questions regarding your claim, you may contact OWCP at (202) 513-6860 or (866) 692-7487 (866-OWCP-IVR).
What counts as personal injury in California?
If you've sustained injuries as a result of someone's negligence or reckless behavior, it's crucial to be aware of your legal rights. Enlisting the services of a personal injury lawyer in California can assist you in seeking compensation for the losses you've incurred. In California, personal injury encompasses any harm caused by the actions or inactions of another party. This encompasses any physical, emotional, and psychological trauma arising from the accident. Regardless of the nature and gravity of the injury, it's imperative for victims to promptly seek medical assistance. Not all injuries manifest visibly on the body's surface, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive medical assessment for personal injury victims as swiftly as possible.
What conditions does we specialize in treating through chiropractic care?
Our clinic specializes in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain, and sports injuries. Our holistic approach focuses on addressing the root causes of these issues.
What treatment modalities do we offer?
We utilizes a variety of chiropractic and therapies, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue manipulation, and rehabilitative exercises. Our goal is to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and improve overall function.
How does your holistic approach differ from traditional medical care?
While traditional medical care often focuses on treating specific symptoms, our holistic approach considers the interconnectedness of the body and mind. We aim to identify and address the root causes of health issues, promoting overall balance and wellness.
What types of treatments are included in your holistic medical care?
Our holistic medical care incorporates a range of treatments, including conventional medical interventions, lifestyle counseling, nutrition guidance, stress management techniques, and complementary rehabilitative therapies. This comprehensive approach aims to optimize health on multiple levels.
Can I still receive specialized care within a holistic approach?
Absolutely. Our holistic medical care doesn't exclude specialized treatments. Instead, it integrates various disciplines to provide a well-rounded and individualized approach to healthcare.
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