Injured on the job: Route to the right claim

Click this symbol on each page to viewthe interactive elements

Injured on the job: Route to the right claim

An interactive training course which will guide you through the proper process of filing a claim through the Office of Worker's Compensation Program (OWCP)

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OWCP Benefits

The FECA protects federal civilian employees injured on the job against wage-loss and provides medical benefits

were extended to federal employees in 1916 when congress enacted the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA)

A federal employee's FECA rights are codified in Title 5 of the United States Code chapter 81 (5 USC 81) and the implementing regulations are found in Title 20 of the Code of Federal Regulations part 10 (20 CFR 10). FECA provides specific benefits to the injured worker:

It also provides compensation for the permanent effect of injury, compensation for death, and vocational rehabilitation

In any claim approval process, the first element must be met before the second element is considered, and so on... until you meet all 5 elements.

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OWCP Claims consist of 5 elements that must be met

Accept

to achieve claim approval

20 CFR § 10.115

1.Time

2. Civil Employee

5. Causal Relationship

3. Fact of Injury

4. Performance of duty

All Postal Employees

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In the letter carrier craft are covered under FECA regardless of designation status or length of employment - 5 USC § 81

Heads up! This language covers that SECOND element we just talked about... civilan employee

The two most common types of OWCP claims filed by letter carriers are:

The CA-2 Occupational disease or illness

The CA-1 Notice of Traumatic Injury

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Grab your satchel and lace up your boots as we follow two carriers through their injuries. The decisions you make will shape the outcome of your claim

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Choose your route

One Wrong Step File a CA-1

Years in the Making File a CA-2

Occupational disease or illness

Notice of Traumatic Injury

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What is a Traumatic Injury?

Traumatic Injury (TI) – “a wound or other condition of the body caused by external force, including stress or strain. The injury must be identifiable as to time and place of occurrence and member or function of the body affected. It must be caused by a specific event or incident or series of events or incidents during a single day or work shift.”

20 CFR 10.5 (ee).

Let's walk in the shoes of an injured carrier filing a CA-1 Taumatic Injury Claim

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What is a Traumatic Injury?

In layman's terms... It's an injury that occurred from a single identifiable incident

Slips, trips, falls, and dog bites typically result in traumatic injuries.

But let's take a look at some not so common examples of traumatic injuries...

Ligament tear or rupture

Frost bite or frost nip

Heat illnesses such as heat stoke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, dehydration, severe sun burn

PTSD or anxiety resulting from a traumatic event such as an assault, animal attack, sexual harrasment, vehicular accident, etc...

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One Wrong Step

You have been a City Letter Carrier for 6 years and pride yourself on having never had an accident or on the job injury. You love being a mail carrier, especially in the spring, and neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night will stay you from completing your job duties. On this particularly beautiful day, everything is slick with the previous night's spring rain. Half-way through your route, you are startled by a booming dog bark and slip down a flight of stairs, twisting your ankle on the landing. Two of your customers hear the commotion and pop outside to ask if you're ok. As a seasoned mail carrier you are embarrassed. You can still walk, but you know that something isn't right.

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One Wrong Step

You have been a City Letter Carrier for 6 years and pride yourself on having never had an accident or on the job injury. You love being a mail carrier, especially in the spring, and neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night will stay you from completing your job duties. On this particularly beautiful day, everything is slick with the previous night's spring rain. Half-way through your route, you are startled by a booming dog bark and slip down a flight of stairs, twisting your ankle on the landing. Two of your customers hear the commotion and pop outside to ask if you're ok. As a seasoned mail carrier you are embarrassed. You can still walk, but you know that something isn't right.

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Remember! The FIRST element of claim approval is TIME

Your supervisor decided not to come out and investigate. Instead, he instructed you to return to the station. Since you know the investigation is an important part of your claim, you decide to take pictures of the accident site... What's next?

Legally, an injured employee can file a claim within 3 years from the date of injury, as long as written notice of the injury was given within 30 days of the injury OR the immediate supervisor had actual knowledge of the injury, whether through verbal or written notification. Read the legal language here

5 USC § 8122

The Postal Regulations regarding injury compensation can be found in Handbook EL-505. When discussing time limits for filing, the EL-505 states that notice of a traumatic injury is given on a CA-1 and should be submitted within 48 hours if possible. However, if you fail to give notice of your injury within 30 days from date of injury, you will lose your entitlement to COP. If you fail to file a claim within 3 years, you will lose compensation rights.

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Remember! The FIRST element of claim approval is TIME .

To make sure we do this right the first time, let's go back and try again!

The FECA allows that a claim can be filed up to 3 years from date of injury. However, USPS handbooks provides specific reporting requirements for both the injured employee and management. Not to mention, you could injure yourself further!

Failing to report immediately may lead to:

Claim delay or denial. OWCP may question:

• If the injury is work related
• If it happened when or where you stated

Management may issue discipline for:

• Failure to follow
• Safety violations
• Delayed reporting

Supervisor responsibilities include:

ELM 544.11

• Ensuring immediate medical care

• Providing a CA-1, completing their portion, and providing receipt of submission

• Investigating all job related injuries

ELM 542.112 - Time Limit

In order to protect their own interests and to ensure an uninterrupted income, employees should give notice or have someone give notice on their behalf, immediately after the traumatic injury occurs.

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Remember that first element?

Now hold on a second... It's never a good idea to walk away from the incident site. Especially if you're injured!

TIME, was it?

To make sure we do this right the first time, let's go back and try again!

The FECA allows that a claim can be filed up to 3 years from date of injury. However, USPS handbooks provides specific reporting requirements for both the injured employee and management. Not to mention, you could injure yourself further!

Failing to report immediately may lead to:

Claim delay or denial. OWCP may question:

• If the injury is work related
• If it happened when and where you stated

Management may issue discipline for:

• Failure to follow
• Safety violations
• Delayed reporting

ELM 542.112

In order to protect their own interests and to ensure an uninterrupted income, employees should give notice or have someone give notice on their behalf, immediately after the traumatic injury occurs.

Supervisor responsibilities include:

ELM 544.11

• Ensuring immediate medical care
• Providing a CA-1, completing their portion, and providing receipt of submission
• Investigating all job related injuries

You don't look injured to me... I'm down 6 routes today. Are you sure you can't finish your assignment? I won't have anyone else to carry your route and it will just sit on the floor.

Don't you at least want a written statement of the accident or the pictures of the incident site I took?

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You return to the station, limping into the office. You sit down at your supervisor's desk and he rolls his eyes...

That's not going to be possible. I'm in a lot of pain, my ankle is swollen, and I need medical attention immediately. Can you help me file an OWCP claim?

... Did you not just hear me say I'm busy? Just go, I'll get all that later.

I don't have time for that right now. Especially since I have to cover your route now too. Just go to the urgent care down the street and I'll get you the paperwork later.

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You return to the station, limping into the office. You sit down at your supervisor's desk and he rolls his eyes...

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The law provides protection regarding the employers responsibility to, not only, advise injured employees of their right to choose a physician, but also, ensure they receive appropriate medical treatement.

Why is this a problem?

Ok, ok, ok... so there's some legal language that says I can pick my own doctor. Big deal, I was given medical treatment wasn't I?

Let's play this scenario out a little further and see the potential outcome of your claim...

You arrive at the urgent care your supervisor instructed you to visit. After speaking with a physician, you learn that this doctor's office does not accept federal workmans' comp cases, only state.

Title 20 CFR § 10.300 (d) states that the employer should advise the employee of the right to his or her initial choice of physician and shall allow the employee to select a qualified physician

Title 5 USC §8103 states that the employee may initially select a physician to provide medical services and that management is reqiured to furnish necessary and reasonable transportation and expenses to the securing of such services

Wanna know something cool?

The DOL has a website to find doctors who accept federal workmans' comp cases

3 Weeks later you get this gem...

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You return to work the next day to provide documentation only to find out that your supervisor is off for the next week on vacation. Instead, you give your medical documentation to a different supervisor.

You arrive at the urgent care your supervisor told you to visit. After speaking with a physician, you learn that this doctor's office does not accept federal workmans' comp cases, only state. No big deal though, you still received medical treatement and a doctor's note with restrictions.

Ugh, no! Of course Dick didn't tell me. Explains why you didn't deliver anything yesterday. I figured you brought it back because you were wasting time out there...

Nope. I can't help you with that since I wasn't the supervisor you reported the injury to. You're gonna have to wait until Dick gets back.

What do you mean?! I reported it to you. You said you didn't have time to investigate. I'm going to have a hard time recalling the specifics...

I came in to talk to you today. I haven't been paid since we haven't filed my claim yet. I could really use the money.

I am still off work actually, I can stand for a little while, but management keeps telling me they don't have work for me.

Hey Dick, welcome back. Can you help me file my claim now?

Oh hey Dan... paperwork for what? What happened yesterday?

Still think you made the right choice? Yea... didn't think so. Let's go back and try again.

Since you didn't report this right away and I didn't get a chance to investigate, I'm gonna need a copy of your statement about the incident.

Hmmmm... that's not how I remember it. Try to write a detailed statement anyways and we'll get this filed.

Hmm, well it seems to me like you're standing just fine. I think you're faking it... but come on let's get this over with.

Ummm... no. Anyway, can you help me file my OWCP claim? Dick said he would help me out, but he didn't tell me he'd be gone for a week on vacation...

You haven't done that yet? I'm actually surprised to see you here... if you were too hurt to carry the other day, shouldn't you be off?

Dick didn't tell you? I slipped and fell on route yesterday. I had to go to urgent care.

Hey Tina, here's my medical paperwork from yesterday.

1Week Later

Oh....Ok....

Remember those 5 pesky elements that need to be met for claim approval?

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We have no time for delayed or denied claims! Let's go back and do it right the first time...

Your claim has now been delayed!

What did you do wrong?!

You visited an urgent care on your way home from work and told them you twisted your ankle. The doctor completes his examination and sent you home with a doctor's note The next day, you Google "how to file a claim"and find instructions to mail a form called a CA-1 into the Department of Labor. You fill out the CA-1 and include copies of your doctor's note which states that you twisted your ankle and you must remain sedentary for 30 days. A few weeks later, you receive a letter from the Department of Labor...

OWCP requires that the medical evidence establishes a causal relationship between the diagnosis and the work-related factors connected to the injury. If the attending physician does not accept Federal Workmans' Comp cases or they are unaware the injury was work-related, they may have trouble understanding OWCP's expectations. The most common reason for a denial of OWCP benefits is failing to establish the Causal Relationship

How are you going to prove the accident happened while performing your duties? Management didn't investigate the accident and you didn't write a statement detailing the incident. You also failed to notify the doctor you were injured at work and don't have a management certified CA-1

The CA-1 must be certified by the supervisor's signature, confirming your employment. This will help establish that you are a Civil Employee.

When you failed to inform urgent care that your injury occurred on the job, your physician did not provide medical documentation that would establish a Causal Relationship.

1. Time

2.Civil Employee

You submitted your claim in a timely manner and established your first element needed for approval

1. Whether the employee actually experienced the accident
2. Whether a medical condition has been diagnosed in connection with the accident

Proving the Fact of Injury has two components:

You've given management the perfect opportunity to controvert your claim. You didn't ensure there was evidence that the injury occurred while on duty!

3. Fact of Injury

A detailed written statement and a CA-17 and CA-20 completed by a physician helps to prove fact of injury.

4. Performance of duty

5. Casual Relationship

Which ones did you meet?

Missed something? Start this page over!

Remember those 5 pesky elements that need to be met for claim approval?

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We have no time for delayed or denied claims! Let's go back and do it right the first time...

Your claim has now been delayed!

What did you do wrong?!

You visited an urgent care on your way home from work and told them you twisted your ankle. The doctor completes his examination and sent you home with a doctor's note The next day, you Google "how to file a claim"and find instructions to mail a form called a CA-1 into the Department of Labor. You fill out the CA-1 and include copies of your doctor's note which states that you twisted your ankle and you must remain sedentary for 30 days. A few weeks later, you receive a letter from the Department of Labor...

OWCP requires that the medical evidence establishes a causal relationship between the diagnosis and the work-related factors connected to the injury. If the attending physician does not accept Federal Workmans' Comp cases or they are unaware the injury was work-related, they may have trouble understanding OWCP's expectations. The most common reason for a denial of OWCP benefits is failing to establish the Causal Relationship

How are you going to prove the accident happened while performing your duties? Management didn't investigate the accident and you didn't write a statement detailing the incident. You also failed to notify the doctor you were injured at work and don't have a management certified CA-1

The CA-1 must be certified by the supervisor's signature, confirming your employment. This will help establish that you are a Civil Employee.

When you failed to inform urgent care that your injury occurred on the job, your physician did not provide medical documentation that would establish a Causal Relationship.

1. Time

2.Civil Employee

You submitted your claim in a timely manner and established your first element needed for approval

1. Whether the employee actually experienced the accident
2. Whether a medical condition has been diagnosed in connection with the accident

Proving the Fact of Injury has two components:

You've given management the perfect opportunity to controvert your claim. You didn't ensure there was evidence that the injury occurred while on duty!

3. Fact of Injury

A detailed written statement and a CA-17 and CA-20 completed by a physician helps to prove fact of injury.

4. Performance of duty

5. Casual Relationship

Which ones did you meet?

Missed something? Start this page over!

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Why was this the right move?

Supervisor Dick is extremely annoyed but that's nothing new. He takes you into his office and hands you a paper copy of the CA-1. Even though you know it's going to upset him more, you respectfully ask that you complete the claim on ECOMP instead. When he starts to throw a fit... you reason with him stating he's going to have to upload it into ECOMP anyway, so really, you're just cutting out a step. Besides, it's easier to track electronically for both of you!

The DOL requires that all claims are filed through ECOMP. Even if you are handed paperwork, management is required to upload it to ECOMP.

early access to your benefits!

Most importantly

filing immediately gives you

Cut out the middleman and ask to file your next claim on ECOMP!

by reporting the injury and filing immediately you will prevent, or at least reduce, the likelihood of disputes. This will help

Establishing a paper trail

prevent claim denial.

Delayed reporting increases scrutiny from OWCP and the USPS HRM Office. The validity of your accident may be in question if you delay prompt reporting.

preserves evidence and allows for immediate investigation, ensuring memories are fresh and any scene evidence is intact. Early reporting also ensures

Reporting immediately

accuracy of details

by verifying that date(s), description(s), and the nature of the incident(s) remain consistent.

Let's see what management's responsibilities entail

your injuries are documented immediately, protecting your rights to benefits. Injuries can worsen. Prompt filing guarantees that even minor injuries are documented if the condition deteriorates later

Prompt filing ensures

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Why was this the right move?

You've got your claim started!

Your supervisor helped you create a profile and fill out your portion of the CA-1 on ECOMP. You can't head to the doctor just yet though... There are a few more important steps to complete before your claim is properly submitted.

Management's got some responsibilities too...

When injuries are reported, its management's turn to act:

It's your regular pay from the Postal Service for the frist 45 days from the date of your injury. You may use your SL or AL, but why would you? Keep in mind... you're not entitled to COP for the first 3 calendar days after date of injury and must use SL, AL, or LWOP, UNLESS you are off work for more than 14 days. In this case, any leave used may be reverted to COP.

What is Continuation of Pay (COP)?

Third, management must advise you of your rights.

• The right to choose a physician -
• 20 CFR 10.300, ELM Section 544.112, and EL-505 Section 3-9.
• The right to elect COP, annual leave, or sick leave -
• 20 CFR 10.200, ELM Section 544.112, and EL-505 Section 3-5

Remember to check out that nifty DOL website for physicians that accept federal workmans' comp cases near you!

Lastly, management must provide the following forms in nonemergency situations:

• CA-16 - Authorization for examination and/or treatment
• CA-17 - Duty Status Report
• CA-20 - Attending Physician's Report
• EL-505 Section 3-9 and 20 CFR 10.331

Each of these forms is required to establish the fact of injury and causal relationship and to ensure proper billing.

Second, management must provide the appropriate claim form promptly (20 CFR 10.100). In this case it is the CA-1. Since September of 2020, the OWCP requires that all claims are filed electronically through ECOMP. As an injured carrier, you should insist that you are provided computer access to file on ECOMP, though management cannot deny a paper form if requested.

First, managment MUST accept an employee's statement of injury. They cannot delay or deny any report. ELM 542.33 establishes a penalty of a $500 fine and/or 1 year in jail for any supervisor who wilfully fails, neglects, or refuses to process a claim. This same penalty applies to any supervisor who coerces an injured employee to forego filing a claim.

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What facts should this statement include, you ask?

When filing your claim electronically on ECOMP, you noticed that the box for the description of your traumatic injury only allowed you to write two short lines. Knowing that 2 of the elements needed for claim approval are Fact of Injury and Performance of Duty, you decide to sit down and write out a detailed statement regarding the incident while your supervisor completes his portion of the CA-1.

• What was the weather like? Was it bright and sunny? Was everything slick with rain? Were there inches of snow and ice?

• Was there something out of your control that distracted you? Did a dog start barking and startle you? Did a customer call your attention?

Whatever the specifics of your traumatic injury, be sure to provide a detailed description of all factors leading to the injury. This will ensure there are no questions about whether your injury occurred while you were performing your job duties.

• How exactly did your injury occur? If you twisted your ankle, did you slip down stairs? Did you attempt to grab onto a handrail to steady yourself but it was loose? Did you land on the inside of your left foot then roll it to the right as the rest of your body landed on your left side? Did you hear a noise like a popping sound then feel immense pain?

• Where did the injury occur? What was the exact location? Is this a location you are familiar with or was it the first time you had been here?

• What time did the incident take place? Was it the beginning of the day or the end of your route? What was the approximate time of injury?

• How much weight were you carrying? Was it the beginning or end of your relay? Did you have a full mail satchel? What were you carrying in your hands?

• What did you do after the injury? Did you immediately call management and report it? Did they come out to investigate? Were there any witnesses?

LET'S WATCH THIS SCENE PLAY OUT

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Ummmm, it's the form that authroizes medical treatment. I need it to ensure that I don't have to pay out of pocket for my exam.

Oh yea, that's the form the union is always crying about. We don't issue that form anymore, the HRM specialist sends it to the doctor once the claim is submitted.

Great, thanks. I'm also going to need a copy of the CA-16 to take to the doctor's office along with the CA-17 and CA-20.

Can you give me a copy of both pages of the CA-1 that was submitted to OWCP? I would like to keep it for my own records.

Seriously? I said I don't have time for this. Ugh, give me a second and I'll print you a copy.

I've never even heard of a CA-16.... what is that?

As you are finishing up your detailed written statement, your supervisor hands you a CA-17, Duty Status Report, and CA-20, Attending Physician's Report, to take to the doctor's office with you. You know you should also receive a CA-16, the authorization for treatment, and a copy of your claim that was submitted to OWCP, the CA-1, Notice of Traumatic Injury...

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Why is the CA-16 Important?

FINALLY... It's time to head to the doctor and get checked out! But before you head out... let's take a quick look at the forms management should provide you for your doctor's visit

You made the smart choice

Ok, ok.... so management is required to give me a CA-16 within 4 hours. I still don't see why it's so important to insist they provide it, if they're just gonna say they can't...

Wanna know a little secret?

THE CA-16 AUTHORIZES IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT AND GUARANTEES THAT AN INJURED EMPLOYEE'S MEDICAL BILLS WILL BE PAID FOR UP TO 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF INJURY, EVEN IF THE CLAIM IS DENIED.

When a claim is filed using ECOMP, your supervisor is required to complete the claim form electronically. At the end of your supervisor’s section, there is an icon to click that actually directs your supervisor to complete and print a CA-16 with the following instructions: * If the injured employee requires medical treatment for the injury, you may obtain Form CA-16, Authorization for Examination and/or Treatment, by clicking the button “Issue CA-16.” A copy of the form will be generated in PDF format, which may be printed and completed to authorize the employee to be treated for the claimed injury. * Please note that the completed CA-16 must be submitted to OWCP by mail or fax, and may not be uploaded in ECOMP.

If management continues to deny you the form, be sure to add that you "requested a CA-16 and was denied" to your written statement before uploading to ECOMP

The Postal Service avoids these costs if an injured worker never receives a CA-16. I wonder why managment refuses to provide one...

CAUTION!

In traumatic injury cases, the Postal Service is required by federal law and postal regulations to issue a CA-16

Read a little bit further in 20 CFR § 10.300 (b)...The employer is not required to issue a Form CA-16 more than one week after the occurrence of the claimed injury. This means if they don't provide one within 7 days from date of injury, they don't have to provide one at all!

20 CFR § 10.300 states that when an employee suffers a traumatic injury requiring medical treatment, the employer shall authorize such treatment by issuing a CA-16. The authorizing official (i.e. your supervisor) must sign and date the form and it must contain their job title.

ELM 545.21 states that the control office or control point must promptly authorize medical treatment by issuing the employee a properly executed Form CA-16 within 4 hours of the claimed injury.

Missed something? Start this page over!

Without a CA-16:

• You may be denied medical treatment
• You may be billed personally and have to fight for reimbursement later

All the more reason to add the denial to your statement before uploading to ECOMP!!

STILL QUESTIONING WHY YOU SHOULD FILE ON ECOMP?

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Why is the CA-16 Important?

FINALLY... It's time to head to the doctor and get checked out! But before you head out... let's take a quick look at the forms management should provide you for your doctor's visit

You made the smart choice

Ok, ok.... so management is required to give me a CA-16 within 4 hours. I still don't see why it's so important to insist they provide it, if they're just gonna say they can't...

Wanna know a little secret?

THE CA-16 AUTHORIZES IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT AND GUARANTEES THAT AN INJURED EMPLOYEE'S MEDICAL BILLS WILL BE PAID FOR UP TO 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF INJURY, EVEN IF THE CLAIM IS DENIED.

When a claim is filed using ECOMP, your supervisor is required to complete the claim form electronically. At the end of your supervisor’s section, there is an icon to click that actually directs your supervisor to complete and print a CA-16 with the following instructions: * If the injured employee requires medical treatment for the injury, you may obtain Form CA-16, Authorization for Examination and/or Treatment, by clicking the button “Issue CA-16.” A copy of the form will be generated in PDF format, which may be printed and completed to authorize the employee to be treated for the claimed injury. * Please note that the completed CA-16 must be submitted to OWCP by mail or fax, and may not be uploaded in ECOMP.

If management continues to deny you the form, be sure to add that you "requested a CA-16 and was denied" to your written statement before uploading to ECOMP

The Postal Service avoids these costs if an injured worker never receives a CA-16. I wonder why managment refuses to provide one...

CAUTION!

In traumatic injury cases, the Postal Service is required by federal law and postal regulations to issue a CA-16

Read a little bit further in 20 CFR § 10.300 (b)...The employer is not required to issue a Form CA-16 more than one week after the occurrence of the claimed injury. This means if they don't provide one within 7 days from date of injury, they don't have to provide one at all!

20 CFR § 10.300 states that when an employee suffers a traumatic injury requiring medical treatment, the employer shall authorize such treatment by issuing a CA-16. The authorizing official (i.e. your supervisor) must sign and date the form and it must contain their job title.

ELM 545.21 states that the control office or control point must promptly authorize medical treatment by issuing the employee a properly executed Form CA-16 within 4 hours of the claimed injury.

Missed something? Start this page over!

Without a CA-16:

• You may be denied medical treatment
• You may be billed personally and have to fight for reimbursement later

All the more reason to add the denial to your statement before uploading to ECOMP!!

STILL QUESTIONING WHY YOU SHOULD FILE ON ECOMP?

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Why is the CA-16 Important?

FINALLY... It's time to head to the doctor and get checked out! But before you head out... let's take a quick look at the forms management should provide you for your doctor's visit

Not the best move

Ok, ok.... so management is required to give me a CA-16 within 4 hours. I still don't see why it's so important to insist they provide it, if they're just gonna say they can't...

Wanna know a little secret?

THE CA-16 AUTHORIZES IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT AND GUARANTEES THAT AN INJURED EMPLOYEE'S MEDICAL BILLS WILL BE PAID FOR UP TO 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF INJURY, EVEN IF THE CLAIM IS DENIED.

When a claim is filed using ECOMP, your supervisor is required to complete the claim form electronically. At the end of your supervisor’s section, there is an icon to click that actually directs your supervisor to complete and print a CA-16 with the following instructions: * If the injured employee requires medical treatment for the injury, you may obtain Form CA-16, Authorization for Examination and/or Treatment, by clicking the button “Issue CA-16.” A copy of the form will be generated in PDF format, which may be printed and completed to authorize the employee to be treated for the claimed injury. * Please note that the completed CA-16 must be submitted to OWCP by mail or fax, and may not be uploaded in ECOMP.

You should never trust that someone else will ensure you receive immediate treatment! If managment denies you a CA-16, document it in your statement before uploading to ECOMP!

The Postal Service avoids these costs if an injured worker never receives a CA-16. I wonder why managment refuses to provide one...

CAUTION!

In traumatic injury cases, the Postal Service is required by federal law and postal regulations to issue a CA-16

Read a little bit further in 20 CFR § 10.300 (b)...The employer is not required to issue a Form CA-16 more than one week after the occurrence of the claimed injury. This means if they don't provide one within 7 days from date of injury, they don't have to provide one at all!

20 CFR § 10.300 states that when an employee suffers a traumatic injury requiring medical treatment, the employer shall authorize such treatment by issuing a CA-16. The authorizing official (i.e. your supervisor) must sign and date the form and it must contain their job title.

ELM 545.21 states that the control office or control point must promptly authorize medical treatment by issuing the employee a properly executed Form CA-16 within 4 hours of the claimed injury.

Missed something? Start this page over!

Without a CA-16:

• You may be denied medical treatment
• You may be billed personally and have to fight for reimbursement later

All the more reason to add the denial to your statement before uploading to ECOMP!!

STILL QUESTIONING WHY YOU SHOULD FILE ON ECOMP?

Back

Why is the CA-16 Important?

FINALLY... It's time to head to the doctor and get checked out! But before you head out... let's take a quick look at the forms management should provide you for your doctor's visit

Not the best move

Ok, ok.... so management is required to give me a CA-16 within 4 hours. I still don't see why it's so important to insist they provide it, if they're just gonna say they can't...

Wanna know a little secret?

THE CA-16 AUTHORIZES IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT AND GUARANTEES THAT AN INJURED EMPLOYEE'S MEDICAL BILLS WILL BE PAID FOR UP TO 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF INJURY, EVEN IF THE CLAIM IS DENIED.

When a claim is filed using ECOMP, your supervisor is required to complete the claim form electronically. At the end of your supervisor’s section, there is an icon to click that actually directs your supervisor to complete and print a CA-16 with the following instructions: * If the injured employee requires medical treatment for the injury, you may obtain Form CA-16, Authorization for Examination and/or Treatment, by clicking the button “Issue CA-16.” A copy of the form will be generated in PDF format, which may be printed and completed to authorize the employee to be treated for the claimed injury. * Please note that the completed CA-16 must be submitted to OWCP by mail or fax, and may not be uploaded in ECOMP.

You should never trust that someone else will ensure you receive immediate treatment! If managment denies you a CA-16, document it in your statement before uploading to ECOMP!

The Postal Service avoids these costs if an injured worker never receives a CA-16. I wonder why managment refuses to provide one...

CAUTION!

In traumatic injury cases, the Postal Service is required by federal law and postal regulations to issue a CA-16

Read a little bit further in 20 CFR § 10.300 (b)...The employer is not required to issue a Form CA-16 more than one week after the occurrence of the claimed injury. This means if they don't provide one within 7 days from date of injury, they don't have to provide one at all!

20 CFR § 10.300 states that when an employee suffers a traumatic injury requiring medical treatment, the employer shall authorize such treatment by issuing a CA-16. The authorizing official (i.e. your supervisor) must sign and date the form and it must contain their job title.

ELM 545.21 states that the control office or control point must promptly authorize medical treatment by issuing the employee a properly executed Form CA-16 within 4 hours of the claimed injury.

Missed something? Start this page over!

Without a CA-16:

• You may be denied medical treatment
• You may be billed personally and have to fight for reimbursement later

All the more reason to add the denial to your statement before uploading to ECOMP!!

STILL QUESTIONING WHY YOU SHOULD FILE ON ECOMP?

How do I do that?

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Let's take a look at how to upload documents in ECOMP

Now what do you do with all this medical documentation?

Ok, your medical examination is now complete! You were diagnosed with a left ankle sprain and your doctor returned the CA-17 and CA-20. Before you leave the office you check over all of the medical documentation to ensure all information is correct and complete.

You made it to a doctor of your choice using that nifty DOL website we talked about earlier

But you still need to safeguard your claim approval....

You must clearly state that your injury is work-related and you need FEDERAL workmans' comp, not state. Provide a copy of the CA-16. This will trigger OWCP billing, ensuring your doctor bills OWCP directly.Stating your injury is work-related is significantly more important if you did not receive a CA-16.

1.

And don't forget about the pictures you took at the incident site or your detailed statement you wrote back at the office...

Make sure you get medical restrictions immediately, if needed.Provide your doctor with the CA-17, Duty Status Report. It will give them a clear understanding of what your typical daily duties entail and allow them the opportunity to provide you with physical restrictions.

4.

Clear diagnosis

Your doctor should send your medical reports directly to OWCP. But if you have learned anything from this training, you'll recognize that you CAN AND SHOULD upload your documentation directly to ECOMP. Doing so will ensure your claims adjustor has immediate access to any and all information. This includes any medical as well as that written statement and the photos you took. Your medical reports are protected by the privacy act and should never be sent directly to the Postal Service. However, it is your responsibility to provide management with a copy of your CA-17, Duty Status Report. The CA-17 provides relevant information needed to provide you with a Limited Duty Job Offer, if you are able to return to work with medical restrictions.

Make sure you are seen by a qualified medical doctor (20 CFR 10.310). FECA requires that medical evidence for OWCP claims is provided by a "qualified physician." Nurse practioners (NPs) and Physician's Assistants (PAs) are not considered qualified physicians under FECA unless their report is co-signed by a doctor.

5.

You need to ensure that your doctor establishes the Causal Relationship. Your doctor must connect your injury to a work event and the connection must be stated clearly on the CA-20.Example: Patient twisted ankle while walking down stairs delivering mail. Patient experienced ankle pain while walking down stairs.

2.

Medical Restrictions

Established connection between your injury and your work duties

Signed by an MD or signed by an NP and co-signed by an MD

Lastly, the follow-up appointments matter! Make sure you attend every follow-up appointment and bring a new CA-17 and CA-20 to each appointment, to be filled out by your doctor. As you heal, your medical restrictions will change. The Postal Service and OWCP will need updated medical documentation after each visit to keep your claim active.

6.

A clear medical diagnoses is required. Your doctor must avoid vague language such as "pain" and "discomfort". Example: Left Ankle Sprain Pain in Left Ankle

3.

Follow-up appoitment scheduled

Congratulations!

You have now uploaded your written statement and medical documentation to ECOMP. Give yourself a highfive, you've chosen the right route to claim approval!

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UPLOADING YOUR DOCUMENTS INTO ECOMP IS... PAINLESS

First, navigate to

You will then input the following:

There are 3 methods for uploading documents into ECOMP. You have access to 2 of these methods straight from the homepage. You don't even need to log in as long as you already have a claim number

You can also upload documents through your dashboard by logging into your ECOMP account. Use this method if you have not received a claim number yet.

A file browser will open and you will be able to select the file you wish to upload. If you are uploading from a phone, you can select the file from your phone's photos or drive files.

The last step is to confirm your submission of the document(s) you wish to upload. First you will be asked to confirm the document you are uploading to your case file by selecting "yes".

After selecting "submit", your documents will be uploaded in your dashboard within 5 hours from submission. You will repeat this process for each document you are uploading.

ECOMP.dol.gov

Once you select "yes", a second confirmation screen will pop up informing you that you will be unable to delete the uploaded documents once you click "submit".

Once you have navigated to the "Upload Documents to Case" page using any of the 3 methods discussed, you will select "CHOOSE A FILE"

• The "Document Type" from the dropdown menu

Then select the "FORMS" tab under your claim dashboard.

Select EITHER "upload documents" on the left side of the homepage

After selecting your file to upload, whether on your computer or phone, you will select "Open."

• The "Author Date" of the document - Not to be confused with the date of injury.

OR select the "documents" dropdown menu at the top right side of the homepage and click "add documents to existing case"

Finally, select the "upload documents" link in your dashboard.

If you have a claim, it will be listed on your dashboard. Select the claim to which you are uploading documents.

And finally, select "Upload"

For more information on how to navigate ECOMP

Now, if you just hang with me for a few more minutes... I want to give you a few tips for things you should be wary of until your return to full duty.

Whichever of the two methods on the homepage you choose, you'll end up on the case access page. Enter your identifying information into the appropriate boxes, then select "access case."

Click the link below or scan the QR Code

ecomp.dol.gov/#/help

Welp friends, you've made it through filing a CA-1 claim for a traumatic injury...

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If you haven't figured it out yet...

You are protected by federal law in the unfortunate event you are injured on the job

The law places the burden on the injured worker to prove the injury is work-related. While the OWCP claims process is designed to operate efficiently and to result in fair, accurate decisions, supervisors mistakes often result in delayed compensation and legitimate claims being delayed, or even denied. These mistakes also violate the law, postal regulations and the National Agreement.

HOWEVER,

If you want, join me as we file a CA-2, Occupational Disease or Illness.

If you liked hanging out, and wanna play again, headback to the beginning!

restart

Here's some helpful tips and things you need to be wary of throughout your period of injury

Missed any of those QR Codes? Check out the resources page!

• You can decline immediate medical help in the event you believe your injury is not severe. HOWEVER, you still need to protect yourself! Ask to sign a Letter of Declination - declining immediate medical help - then write a detailed statement about the incident and retain copies! You can then file a claim for up to 3 years from the date of injury!

• Similarly, in the event that management does provide you with a PS Form 2499, Limited Duty Job Offer, and it lists work duties outside of your medical restrictions, YOU MUST NEVER DENY THE JOB OFFER. Doing so may result in termination of OWCP compensation. Instead, sign "under protest" and speak with the union.

• All employees have rights under FECA from the first minute of their appointment. This includes CCAs

• Management is REQUIRED to provide a CA-16 within 4 hours of the reported injury, if they deny you this form, document it in a written statement

• In the event that you are returned to work with medical restrictions, management is REQUIRED to make every effort to provide any available work within your restrictions. If management attempts to provide you with work outside of your medical restrictions, fill out a PS Form 1767, safety form, and speak with your union steward.

• All injured on-the-job employees HAVE THE RIGHT TO, AND SHOULD ELECT FOR continuation of pay (COP) for up to 45 days after the date of a traumatic injury. COP is a continuance of your regular pay by the Postal Service, rather than using your own leave. The first 3 calendar days after date of injury will be charged to the employees AL, SL, or LWOP, but may be returned and reverted to COP in the event you are off work for longer than 14 days. Management often fails to input COP properly, resulting in a delay of pay. Fill out PS Forms 3971 requesting COP and watch your time cards closely.

For any other questions and concerns or

• COP for CCAs is calculated based on the average number of hours worked prior to the date of injury. Often times a CCAs hourly average is miscalculated. Always investigate!

When in doubt...

• Decisions made by OWCP are NOT grievable, only management's violation of procedures and its mishandling of claims

• If management controverts, or challenges, your claim, they are REQUIRED to provide you with written notice of the controversion

call your friendly neighborhood union steward

Can you give me some examples?

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What the heck does an Occupational Disease or Illness entail?

Ok, I get what qualifies as an occupational disease or illness, but how the heck do I prove it? Let's take a look at those 5 elements...

Emotional or psychological conditions such as:

• Emotional stress
• High blood pressure
• Anxiety

These conditions are harder to prove but can be done. For example, if it is proven that an extended emotional condition resulted from a reaction to assigned work duties or a requirement from the employer.

Musculoskeletal Disorders such as:

• Sprains and strains
• Sciatica
• Muscle Tears
• Herniated Discs

• Carpal Tunnel

Often seen in shoulders, back, hips, knees, and wrists from sorting mail, heavy lifting, and prolonged walking on uneven surfaces

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) such as:

• Carpal tunnel in hand and wrist
• Tennis Elbow
• Rotator cuff Tendonitis
• Knee and hip strains

Symptoms of RSIs include persistent pain, tingling, numbness and reduced mobility

Skin conditions such as:

• Eczema
• Dermatitis
• Skin cancer
• Frost bite

These diseases can be caused by regular contact with items like dirty mail, cardboard, and rubber bands as well as exposure to extreme environmental factors

Respiratory Illness such as:

• Asthma
• Chronic bronchitis
• Reduced lung function

These illnesses can be due to continued expsure to vehicle exhaust and traffic polutants, dust, and environmental allergens

Lower Limb Injuries such as:

• Knee injuries including cartilage wear and tear,and ligament damage
• Plantar Fasciitis, tendonitis, and strains in foot

and or ankles

• Chronic pain in hips and thighs

It's pretty simple really...

An occupational disease or illness means a condition produced by the work environment over a period longer than a single workday or shift.

20 CFR 10.5 (q).

Unlike a Traumatic Injury - which occurs in a single identifiable event

an occupational disease or illness is harder to recognize

It's a condition that develops over time, from repetitive actions or exposure

or can occur when job duties aggravate a pre-existing condtion

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Let's step into the shoes of a carrier as we file a CA-2, Notice of Occupational Disease or Illness, for carpal tunnel

The law places the burden on the injured worker to prove the injury is work-related. Filing a CA-2 is often dificult because it requires proving that a condition developed gradually over time due to specific work duties, rather than a single, clear-cut incident. Unlike traumatic injuries, occupational diseases face high burdens of proof, stringent documentation requirements, and complex medical requirements to prove the injury is related to the cause.

So, in cases of Occupational Disease or Ilness, how do we establish burden of proof using the 5 elements

4. Performance

of Duty

5. Causal

Relationship

3. Fact of

Injury

1. Time

2. Civil

Employee

You have 3 years to file once you become aware your condition is work related. If you continue working from the date of awareness, the clock starts from the date of last exposure.

Pretty straight forward... BUT, did you know that retirees and separated employees can file a CA-2 if the condition arose during federal employment?

You must identify specific, repetitive work duties that could have caused the injury. You will want to document the frequency, duration, and specific motions these work duties entail.

You must prove the existence of a disease or illness through a clear medical diagnosis from a qualified physician. No vague words like "shoulder pain"

You will need a rationalized medical opinion based on history which explains how your work duties caused or contributed to your condition.

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Years in the making

You've been a dedicated mail carrier for the last 15 years of your life. You show up to work everyday, case and carry your route, and some days, you case or carry additional routes when mandatory overtime is required. One morning, while casing your route your left hand begins to go numb. You've been feeling a tingling sensation in your hand and fingers for the last few weeks while holding bundles of DPS out on route, but you've never had your hand go numb before. You shake your hand out and the numbness goes away so you tell yourself "it's probably nothing" and continue casing. Later that afternoon, while out walking your route and delivering mail, your hand starts to tingle and go numb again. You are able to shake it off a second time, but begin to wonder if something is wrong.

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In all OWCP Claims, the burden to prove is on the injured worker

Good choice

So, why are accurate notes critical to your claim?

It is critical in repetitive trauma cases (like carpal tunnel) that you document the specific job duties you were performing whenever symptoms arose. You must be able to provide a comprehensive and detailed description of your work duties and how they caused or exacerbated an injury, creating a factual

WORK NARRATIVE

Your doctor will need to establish a relationship between your injury and your work duties. Failing to establish the "Causal Relationship" is the reason most OWCP claims are disapproved. Most doctors don't understand the physical demands of letter carriers. Your detailed notes will help your doctor write a CLEAR

EXPLANATION

Documenting dates of symptoms and the work duties you were performing at the time will help to pinpoint when the condition began AND tie your symptoms to your job duties. Symptoms appear gradually in most CA-2 cases, complicating the claims process. Documenting the history of symptoms will help overcome the hurdle of

DELAYED ONSET

Let's check out OWCP evidence requirements...

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In all OWCP Claims, the burden to prove is on the injured worker

OH No, no, no

Ignoring your injury is never the right move

One of the toughest hurdles to overcome in cases of occupational disease or illness is

Ignoring your symptoms makes it harder to pinpoint when you first noticed the issue. This will make it harder to prove that your injury was caused by your job duties.

DELAYED ONSET.

The moment you realize your injury could be related to your work duties, you should begin documenting the symptoms and the work you were performing at that time.

Let's check out OWCP evidence requirements...

WHY, you ask...?

You can pinpoint the condition by keeping track of dates you experienced the symptoms and the work you were performing. Documenting the history of symptoms will help overcome the hurdle of

DELAYED ONSET

Your doctor needs to establish a relationship between your injury and your work duties. Most doctors don't understand the physical demands of letter carriers. Detailed notes will help your doctor write a CLEAR

EXPLANATION

It is critical in repetitive trauma cases, like carpal tunnel, that you are able to provide a detailed description of your work duties and how they caused or exacerbated an injury, creating a factual

WORK NARRATIVE

Back

In all OWCP Claims, the burden to prove is on the injured worker

Not a bad move...

But it's not enough either.

Because these conditions gradually appear, one of the toughest hurdles to overcome in cases of occupational disease or illness is

While notifying your supervisor is a good decision, without documentation you have not created any records of a pattern of symptoms and their relation to your work duties.

DELAYED ONSET.

Once you realize your injury could be related to your work duties, you should begin documenting the symptoms and work performed at that time.

Let's check out OWCP evidence requirements...

WHY, you ask...?

You can pinpoint the condition by keeping track of dates you experienced the symptoms and the work you were performing. Documenting the history of symptoms will help overcome the hurdle of

DELAYED ONSET

It is critical in repetitive trauma cases, like carpal tunnel, that you are able to provide a detailed description of your work duties and how they caused or exacerbated an injury, creating a factual

Your doctor needs to establish a relationship between your injury and your work duties. Most doctors don't understand the physical demands of letter carriers. Detailed notes will help your doctor write a CLEAR

EXPLANATION

WORK NARRATIVE

In all OWCP Claims, the burden to prove is on the injured worker

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Follow along as our symptoms worsen over time...

OWCP recognizes this burden is substantial and have taken the guess work out of what information is required when filing a CA-2, Notice of Occupational Disease or Illness. The CA-35 is a checklist provided by OWCP which lists the information required when submitting a CA-2 claim. This checklist as well as most OWCP Forms can be found here

1. Detailed description of factors and the duration and nature of those factors
2. History of the condition from first awareness
3. Dates of onset and history

Let's take a closer look at the injured employee's responsibilities when first gathering evidence...

Recognize the importance of taking notes yet?

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At first, it was just a slight tingling sensation in your left hand. Like the pins and needles you get before a limb falls asleep. It happened once or twice every couple weeks or so, but you would shake it off. The first time you began to experience numbness with the tingling sensation, you began documenting dates, symptoms, and the tasks you were completing at the time in a little notebook.

6 months later...

You can no longer shake off the tingling in your hand. The feeling lingers and the numbness sticks around for several minutes at a time. There are also moments where gripping a bundle of mail feels... off. Not painful exactly, just like your grip is weaker. Because of the notes you've taken, you start to notice a pattern. The feeling happens on heavier mail days or when you case multiple routes. You've also noticed it happens often toward the end of your shift. You now have a decision to make...

Back

At first, it was just a slight tingling sensation in your left hand. Like the pins and needles you get before a limb falls asleep. It happened once or twice every couple weeks or so, but you would shake it off. The first time you began to experience numbness with the tingling sensation, you began documenting dates, symptoms, and the tasks you were completing at the time in a little notebook.

6 months later...

You can no longer shake off the tingling in your hand. The feeling lingers and the numbness sticks around for several minutes at a time. There are also moments where gripping a bundle of mail feels... off. Not painful exactly, just like your grip is weaker. Because of the notes you've taken, you start to notice a pattern. The feeling happens on heavier mail days or when you case multiple routes. You've also noticed it happens often toward the end of your shift. You now have a decision to make...

Great job! You've started a record of medical history. Now let's see what happens next...

You've chosen the route that will ensure the CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP starts here.

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What a wise decision!

In all CA-2 Notice of Occupational Disease or Illness claims filed, gathering the necessary evidence for claim approval requires significant effort. One of the most challenging aspects of filing any claim is establishing the causal relationship. A simple diagnosis of the condition is insufficient for a CA-2. Your doctor must provide a "well-reasoned" medical report that specifically explains how repetitive work duties caused the specific diagnosis

Taking your detailed notes of symptoms, the duration, and the duties you were performing at the time will ensure your doctor can provide a medical history to support the CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP once you start a claim.

Well would you look at that...the first 2 items needed in the medical report from your physician are:

• Dates of examination and treatment
• The history given by you

YOUR NOTES MATTER

We just took a look at some of your evidence responsibilities. Let's take a look at what you need from your Doctor...

Note to self... bring the notes and discuss them with my Doctor. Now let's see what happens next...

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You've Just done yourself a disservice.

Whomp Whomp.....

Ok, ok... you mentioned the condition to your doctor, but you failed to tie the injury to your job duties from the first visit. You've missed the perfect opportunity to start the CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP. Now you're going to have to wait and try again next visit...

Maybe not the best move.

In all CA-2 Notice of Occupational Disease or Illness claims filed, gathering the necessary evidence for claim approval requires significant effort. One of the most challenging aspects of filing any claim is establishing the causal relationship.

Taking your detailed notes of symptoms, the duration of those symptoms, and the duties you were performing at the time the symptoms arose will ensure your doctor can provide a medical history to support the CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP once you start a claim.

See a common theme?

• Dates of examination and treatment

• History of the condition

Your notes will help prove that CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP

Let's take a look at the evidence required by both you and your doctor on that CA-35 check list again...

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You're not in pain, so why does a delay in medical treatment hurt your claim?

Aye, Aye, Aye....

Note to self... pay attention to symptoms and seek medical treatment. Now let's see what happens next...

Delaying care weakens 4 of the core elements we've been talking about and creates a gap between symptoms and treatment.

You're not helping your claim at all.

GAPS CREATE DOUBT!

Well would you look at that... You've now given OWCP the perfect opportunity to deny your claim, stating, "If the condition is work related, why wasn't it treated sooner?"

1. Time

3. Fact of

Injury

Delaying medical treatment means you delay a medical diagnosis. A gap between the date of awareness and date of a medical diagnosis weakens your medical history.

4. Performance

of Duty

Delaying medical treatment AND failing to document work duties that could have caused the condition will make it harder to prove that your condition was related to your job duties.

5. Causal

Relationship

Your doctor must connect your condition with your work duties. How the heck are they going to do that if there is a gap between symptoms and treatment?

The clock starts from the date of awareness and/or last expsure. A gap between date of awareness and the date you sought medical treatment weakens your claim.

Ignoring your condition and delaying medical treatment will ensure it is harder to trace your symptoms back. Without consistent history, the medical evidence becomes less creditable. A CA-2 claim relies heavily on progression over time. Moral of the story...

DON'T IGNORE OR DELAY!

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CONGRATULATIONS!

You've been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in your left hand. With this diagnosis, you now have a clear Fact of Injury that meets the requirements for the second element of claim approval. You and your doctor have determined that your condition is not serious yet are still able to continue working. The doctor releases you for full duty but will monitor your symptoms through regular check-ups and has placed you in a wrist brace to help. Based on the notes you took regarding your symptoms, the duration of the symptoms, and the job duties you were performing at the time the symptoms appeared, you have helped your doctor determine that the repetitive motion of casing your route and carrying heavy bundles of mail have contributed to your condition. Bonus points. you took the CA-35 checklist with you so you and your doctor know what kind of documentation is needed for a CA-2 claim.

Cool, you have a diagnosis... now what?

OK, you're back to work with a diagnosis. Now what? You have another decision to make...

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but why?

Definitely the right move,

Let's take a look at the CFR...

20 CFR § 10.330 lists the medical report requirements for all claims submitted to OWCP.

Ok, so you got your doctor to write a medical opinion for you. Do you think you'll need anything else? Let's take a look at our CA-35 checklist. But check this out, did you know that OWCP provides specific checklists for certain ailments? You should... it's on that nifty link I gave you earlier. Did you miss it? Here it is again

OWCP requires: (i) The physician's opinion, with medical reasons, as to causal relationship between the diagnosed condition(s) and the factors or conditions of the employment.

The narrative must include:

• A statement that they have read the work description you wrote in your narrative
• Definitive diagnosis
• Opinion of causal connection
• Detailed medical rationale for the opinion
• Extent & duration of disability

There's that term, CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP again... pretty important right?

CA-35 A-H provides specific checklists for the following:

• Occupational disease
• Hearing loss
• Asbestos related illness
• Coronary/vascular condition
• Pulmonary (non-asbestos)
• Skin disease
• Psychiatric
• Carpal tunnel

Click here so we can take a closer look at the checklist for carpal tunnel, since, ya know, you just got diagnosed with it.

OK, you're back to work with a diagnosis. Now what? You have another decision to make...

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Whoa there, did you read those choices carefully?

After everything we've learned here today, why wouldn't you ask for a medical opinion? Let's take a look at the CFR...

20 CFR § 10.330 lists the medical report requirements for all claims submitted to OWCP.

Ok, so you're not leaving the doctors office without asking for a medical opinion connecting the causal relationship. Got it. Do you think you'll need anything else? Let's take a look at our CA-35 checklist. But check this out, did you know that OWCP provides specific checklists for certain ailments? You should... it's on that nifty link I gave you earlier. Did you miss it? Don't worry, here it is again.

There's that term, CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP again... pretty important right?

OWCP requires: (i) The physician's opinion, with medical reasons, as to causal relationship between the diagnosed condition(s) and the factors or conditions of the employment.

The narrative must include:

• A statement that they have read the work description you wrote in your narrative
• Definitive diagnosis
• Opinion of causal connection
• Detailed medical rationale for the opinion
• Extent & duration of disability

Failing to specify that you need a detailed medical report connecting your condition to your work duties creates some issues: 1. A diagnosis alone is NOT enough for OWCP. Without the causal relationship explained by your doctor, the claim fails. Ok, big deal, you can get it from your doctor at the next visit, right? 2. Dealying the opinon could create gaps. If you request the report later, your doctor may forget details, be less specific, or provide a weaker opinion.

The CA-35 A-H provides specific checklists for the following:

• Occupational disease
• Hearing loss
• Asbestos related illness
• Coronary/vascular condition
• Pulmonary (non-asbestos)
• Skin disease
• Psychiatric
• Carpal tunnel

Click here so we can take a closer look at the checklist for carpal tunnel, since, ya know, you just got diagnosed with it.

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Returned to work

You've returned to full duty, but with a warning from your doctor. You're condition is currently manageable, but will worsen with continued repetive motions that caused it. Back on the workroom floor, you resume your route like nothing happened except your wearing a wrist brace for support. After a few days, the familiar tingling and numbness crept back into your fingers and your grip is getting weaker. You're still able to work full duty and you have another doctor's appointment scheduled in a few weeks to follow up and you're worried about management's reaction to filing a claim. You have the notes you took, documenting your symptoms, the statement you wrote, and some medical documentation but not much. You have that opinion from your doctor... but is it enough? You ask yourself, "Can I even file a claim if I'm still working?"

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Returned to work

You've returned to full duty, but with a warning from your doctor. You're condition is currently manageable, but will worsen with continued repetitive motions that caused it. Back on the workroom floor, you resume your route like nothing happened except your wearing a wrist brace for support. After a few days, the familiar tingling and numbness crept back into your fingers and your grip is getting weaker. You're still able to work full duty and you have another doctor's appointment scheduled in a few weeks to follow up and you're worried about management's reaction to filing a claim. You have the notes you took, documenting your symptoms, the statement you wrote, and some medical documentation but not much. You have that opinion from your doctor... but is it enough? You ask yourself, "Can I even file a claim if I'm still working?"

Sounds nice don't it... but unfortunately COP is a CA-1 luxury.

20 CFR § 10.205

Let's head back and try again.

Continuation of pay, or COP, is a temporary, agency-paid benefit for TRAUMATIC injuries. Since traumatic injuries are sudden, work-related and identifiable, COP ensures that you continue receiving pay while OWCP is figuring things out with your injury.

Occupational diseases develop over time and are not tied to one specific event. You need medical evidence and investigation to prove it's work related. OWCP won't assume your injury is work-related right away and you'll have to use SL, AL, or LWOp while waiting for claim approval.

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Honestly, either option works... but let's talk about which option works BEST for you

There is no rule requiring immediate filing of a CA-2 You have 3 years to file once you recognize you have a condition and that it's work-related.

20 CFR § 10.101

Best practice? File as soon as you have a medical opinion establishing the causal relationship. You can add more evidence after each follow up appointment and strengthen your claim over time. File when you have causation, don't wait to have "everything." 20 CFR § 10.331 states that a medical report should be submitted to OWCP as soon as possible after medical examination

As long as you have a CONFIRMED DIAGNOSIS and your doctor has provided a CLEAR CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP linking your injury to your job, you're ready to file! We have both in this scenario, don't we? Early filing can protect you and any delays can create risks, BUT if you file without that medical opinion, you may weaken your claim.

Let's look at some pros & cons of filing vs waiting to file AFTER you've received a medical opinion establishing causation

We have a diagnosis and causation... Let's get our claim started! But... do I need management's help to file?

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Honestly, either option works... but let's talk about which option works BEST for you

PROS vs CONS

To file?

Wait to file?

Creates gaps in timeline - OWCP may question why you delayed filing

Establishes when you became aware the condition was work-related

Timeline

Starts claim development process - OWCP will request more evidence if needed

Delays the claim development process

Development

Weakens your creditability. Delays can make your claim seem inconsistent

Shows you acted promptly once you sought medical treatment

Creditability

PROTECTED! If your condition worsens, your claim is already on record

DELAYED! If your condition worsens, you're not yet covered for compensation

Future Benefits

Reduces risk of denial due to gaps in your timeline

Approval

You risk higher scrutiny by OWCP

Follow me, we're going to learn how to file on ECOMP.

So the question is...Do I need a supervisor to help file my CA-2?

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Couple things to keep in mind though

Once your claim is submitted on ECOMP, your supervisor will receive an email requiring them to review and submit your claim. It will be forwarded on to an ECOMP Agency Reviewer, for a final review then submitted to ECOMP.

THIS MUST BE COMPLETED WITHIN 10 DAYS.

20 CFR §10.110

Management is required by law to process claims. They cannot require or coerce an injured employee to waive their rights to compensation.

ELM 542.33 establishes a penalty of a $500 fine and/or 1 year in jail for any supervisor who wilfully fails, neglects, or refuses to process a claim or who coerces an employee to forego filing.

20 CFR § 10.15

Nope! If you have access to a computer or phone, you can file all by yourself! All you'll need is your immediate supervisor's email address

20 CFR §10.606 & 10.607

Be sure to have your written statement and all medical documentation WITH causal relationship ready when filing. EXPECT SCRUTINY. CA-2 Occuapational Disease and Illness claims are more complex and more often denied. If your claim is denied initially, don't be discouraged! You can file for reconsideration.

An application for reconsideration must be submitted in writing, signed by yourself or an authorized agent, and include all supporting documentation. The request must be received within 1 year from the date of the OWCP decision to be considered timely.

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First, navigate to

to register and/or login

Congratulations! You've successfully filed a CA-2 Claim! Give yourself a slap on the back, you chose the right route to claim approval!

If you want, join me as we file a CA-1, Traumatic Injury

If you liked hanging out, and wanna play again, headback to the beginning!

Missed any of those QR Codes? Check out the resources page!

Want more tips on how to upload documents?

Where to next?

FILING A CLAIM IN ECOMP COULDN'T BE EASIER

Next you will upload all statements and medical documents to your claim. Once they are uploaded, you will be asked to review all entries prior to submission.

ECOMP.dol.gov

Once you've logged into your dashboard, you will be asked to verify your identity on Login.gov. You can skip verification but will have limited access to your dashboard.

Once you have reviewed your file and made any edits, if necessary, you will submit your claim by selecting "Sign and File."

If your claim was not filed within 30 days from the date listed on your medical report, you will be asked to explain why. "Pending medical report" is acceptable.

Your name and email will auto populate from your ECOMP dashboard. Fill in the remaining information. Note, you can find your pay grade and pay step information on your SF 50 found in Liteblue under eOPF

You will also need to input the email of the supervisor you reported your injury to, then select next. Once you submit your claim, it will be emailed to your supervisor for review and submission to the Agency Reviewer.

You will input the date you became aware of the illness or disease and the date you realized it was connected to your employment. This will be the date on your physician's medical report.

If you verify your identity using Login.gov, you will select "New Claim" from your dashboard menu.

If you skip verification, you will select "forms" from your dashboard, then "File New Form" from the dropdown menu.

Next, you explain the relationship of your injury to your employment and the diagnosis using the information listed on your medical report.

You will then be asked to input your "Occupational Code" found on your SF 50 in eOPF, and the address of your employing office.

Next you will input your home address and information regarding your dependents.

You will then be asked to confirm whether you are submitting a written statement and a medical report. If you select "No" for either of these, you will be asked to explain the delay.

For more information on how to navigate ECOMP

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You will then select the government agency you work for and fill out the corresponding boxes.

Click the link below or scan the QR Code

Next, you will select "File CA-1 or CA-2"

Select "File a Claim" from the informational page about CA-1 and CA-2 forms.

ecomp.dol.gov/#/help

Next, choose "Select CA-2."

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UPLOADING YOUR DOCUMENTS INTO ECOMP IS... PAINLESS

You will then input the following:

You can also upload documents through your dashboard by logging into your ECOMP account. Use this method if you have not received a claim number yet.

There are 3 methods for uploading documents into ECOMP. You have access to 2 of these methods straight from the homepage. You don't even need to log in as long as you already have a claim number

A file browser will open and you will be able to select the file you wish to upload. If you are uploading from a phone, you can select the file from your phone's photos or drive files.

The last step is to confirm your submission of the document(s) you wish to upload. First you will be asked to confirm the document you are uploading to your case file by selecting "yes".

After selecting "submit", your documents will be uploaded in your dashboard within 5 hours from submission. You will repeat this process for each document you are uploading.

Welp friends, you've made it through filing a CA-1 claim for a traumatic injury...

Once you select "yes", a second confirmation screen will pop up informing you that you will be unable to delete the uploaded documents once you click "submit".

Once you have navigated to the "Upload Documents to Case" page using any of the 3 methods discussed, you will select "CHOOSE A FILE"

• The "Document Type" from the dropdown menu

Then select the "FORMS" tab under your claim dashboard.

Select EITHER "upload documents" on the left side of the homepage

After selecting your file to upload, whether on your computer or phone, you will select "Open."

• The "Author Date" of the document - Not to be confused with the date of injury.

OR select the "documents" dropdown menu at the top right side of the homepage and click "add documents to existing case"

Finally, select the "upload documents" link in your dashboard.

If you have a claim, it will be listed on your dashboard. Select the claim to which you are uploading documents.

If you want, join me as we file a CA-1, Traumatic Injury.

If you liked hanging out, and wanna play again, headback to the beginning!

And finally, select "Upload"

Whichever of the two methods on the homepage you choose, you'll end up on the case access page. Enter your identifying information into the appropriate boxes, then select "access case."

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Missed any of those QR Codes? Check out the resources page!

Knowledge is the power to your protection

OWCP RESOURCES - Helpful DOL websites

click or scan the QR codes to open the link in a new tab

ECOMP user guides

Need help navigating ECOMP? Check out some helpful user guide videos here.

ECOMP.dol.gov

Login to ECOMP and create your portal today! One less step in the event you're injured on the job.

OWCPconnect.com

Find Federal Workers Comp Experts and OWCP credentialed doctors near you.

OWCP forms

Download copies of OWCP compliant forms here such as:

• CA-1
• CA-2
• CA-17
• CA-20
• CA-35 A-H

Know your rights

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Knowledge is the power to your protection

OWCP RESOURCES - Legal Jargon

click or scan the QR codes to open the link in a new tab

5 USC 81

Title 5 of United States Code chapter 81 defines a federal employees' rights under FECA

Handbook EL-505

USPS managment playbook to injury compensation. It provides guidlines to management's responsibilites to injured employees

20 CFR Part 10

Title 20 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 10 establishes the implementing regulations of the FECA defined in Title 5 USC

FECA Procedure Manual

The official internal guide used by OWCP to administer claims under the FECA

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Know your rights

Knowledge is the power to your protection

OWCP RESOURCES - Legal Jargon

click or scan the QR codes to open the link in a new tab

ELM Section 540

Postal regulations regarding rights and responsibilities under the injury compensation program

20 CFR 10.300

Management's legal requirement to authorize medical treatment and issue the CA-16

20 CFR 10.220.46

The implementing regulations regarding medical evidence requirements

20 CFR 10.200

The implementing regulations regarding an injured employees right to COP

Know your rights

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Knowledge is the power to your protection

OWCP RESOURCES - Form Carousel

click or scan the QR codes to open the link in a new tab

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Back to the beginning

Examples of OWCP compliance forms found on the DOL website. Note the CA-16 is a controlled document and must be provided by management

Well would you look at that,

The CA-35H gives you an outline on how to write a detailed statement to submit along with your physician's medical report. Be sure to read this outline carefully and include all information cited in section 1 for the best possible outcome of your claim. Also note, OWCP claims examiners are not mail carriers. Terms like "DPS", "relay", "LLV", "hot case", "pivot", "aux", "hamper", etc... will have no meaning to your examiner. Be sure to use terms that non-postal employees will be able to understand when reading your statement.

Well would you look at that,

The CA-35H gives you an outline on how to write a detailed statement to submit along with your physician's medical report. Be sure to read this outline carefully and include all information cited in section 1 for the best possible outcome of your claim. Also note, OWCP claims examiners are not mail carriers. Terms like "DPS", "relay", "LLV", "hot case", "pivot", "aux", "hamper", etc., will have no meaning to your examiner. Be sure to use terms that non-postal employees will be able to understand when reading your statement.