How to Obtain Medical Treatment Under Federal Workers’ Compensation

Accessing Medical Treatment With Federal Workers’ Comp

Have you been injured on the job? Even if your discomfort is minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and file a report with your employer. Federal workers have special considerations as they seek compensation for their injuries. At Aumiller Lomax, we work to guide these employees through the process of securing medical treatment after an accident. Our team is dedicated to helping people across the United States access their benefits, facilitate recovery, and, whenever possible, return to work. Find out the process for receiving medical care under federal workers’ compensation.

Be Sure You Know Your Rights

Understanding the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) is an essential first step to getting treatment. Under this law, federal employees injured on the job are entitled to comprehensive medical benefits. This includes all services, supplies, and devices required for the treatment of the injury. You should have the right to choose your own treating physician and are not required to use a healthcare provider recommended by your employer or the insurance carrier.

How to Get Medical Treatment Promptly

The medical treatment procedures under federal workers’ compensation are more complicated than simply scheduling an appointment with your family doctor. For best results, you’ll want to follow the proper process down to the letter. Here are the general steps to obtain medical treatment through federal workers’ comp:

1. Make a Report—Report the injury immediately to your supervisor. In many cases, your agency may issue you a Form CA-16, which authorizes medical treatment by a provider of your choice. However, this form is not guaranteed and is typically only issued within the first 7 days after a traumatic injury. It is not available for occupational disease claims. The CA-16 covers treatment for up to 60 days from the date of issuance.
2. Choose a Physician—When choosing a physician, make sure they are willing to accept payment through the Federal Employees’ Compensation Program and are familiar with the billing procedures. Opt for a provider who understands the importance of thorough reporting, as detailed medical reports can significantly affect your claim.
3. Submit Evidence—Your chosen physician should provide detailed medical reports that describe your diagnosis, the treatment plan, and any prescribed medications or therapies. Every piece of documentation strengthens your claim.
4. Receive Follow-Up Care—After the initial period covered by Form CA-16, you should try to have your physician fill out a Form CA-20 to support your claim. Just because you receive some initial benefits, does not mean your claim is accepted. Having your doctor fill out the CA-20 thoroughly and as soon as possible can dramatically improve your chances of things proceeding smoothly. It’s vital to follow the guidelines outlined by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs(OWCP) when seeking approvals for surgeries, physical therapy, or other specialized treatments.
5. Document Disability—Your physician needs to document if you have physical limitations resulting from your work injury. While any medical note specifying your limitations is enough, it is preferred to have your doctor detail the limitations on a Form CA-17 or OWCP-5. Note that doctor’s often inadvertently overlook things like restrictions on commuting to work or restrictions based on side effects from medications. You should have a thorough conversation with your doctor about this topic. Any notes or forms containing physical limitations from your doctor should be turned over to your employer as your employer may be able to accommodate you in some form of modified duty assignment.
6. Address Discrepancies—In some cases, an employer will challenge the injured workers’ claims. Should these issues arise, be ready to provide additional evidence and possibly seek a second opinion. You or your medical professional are entitled to dispute any decisions made regarding your medical care.

You May Be Eligible for Other Forms of Compensation

After obtaining medical care under federal workers’ comp, you can explore your options for other forms of compensation. Depending on the nature and extent of your injuries, you may be eligible for temporary or permanent disability. In cases when you lose the ability to work for a prolonged period of time, your employer may be required to compensate you for lost wages. Some employees also take advantage of vocational rehabilitation benefits, which allow them to retrain for their jobs or build skills to find other employment. This is utilized at the discretion of the OWCP and is not mandatory. If you have questions about your eligibility for any of these benefits, feel free to reach out to Aumiller Lomax for a no-fee consultation.

Helping You Get the Benefits You Need

Aumiller Lomax is dedicated to assisting clients from all over the country as they recover from workplace injuries. We understand that recovery is often an uphill battle, and adequate compensation can make all the difference. Our attorneys have years of experience in this field and can help you present your case in the best possible light. Contact us today to let us know how we can support you.