Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris and Gini, featuring special guests Jennifer and Emmy from Federal Injury Centers. This episode provides an inside look at what happens when you call a Federal Injury Center's office for the first time and walks through the complete OWCP claims process.
Featured Guests
- Jennifer - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchises
- Emmy - National Case Manager and Trainer for Federal Injury Centers franchises
Key Topics Covered
Filing Your Initial Claim
- How to create an eCom account on ecom.dl.gov
- Filing CA-1 (traumatic injury) or CA-2 (occupational disease) claims
- The supervisor's role in the process
- Getting your case file number within 5 days
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Biggest mistake: Not reporting the injury immediately to someone
- Documenting incorrect information (wrong dates, personal details)
- Not electing Continuation of Pay (COP)
- Rushing through paperwork without double-checking
The FIC Intake Process
- Detailed one-hour intake interview
- Comprehensive injury description gathering
- Medical records collection
- DOL document review
After Filing Your Claim
- Understanding development letters vs. denials
- The 60-day response period
- What happens during your medical appointment
- Work status forms and restrictions
Appeals and Reconsiderations
- Why FIC prefers reconsideration over other appeal methods
- Unlimited reconsideration attempts within 12 months
- Success rate of over 95% claim acceptance
Schedule Awards
- Eligibility requirements (must be back to full duty or retired)
- Cannot receive dual OWCP benefits simultaneously
- No time limit - can file as long as you're alive
Special Situations Discussed
- Hearing loss claims
- Air Marshal specific forms
- Rural carrier vs. other postal crafts
- Multiple case scenarios
Upcoming Events
- Las Vegas Open House: July 22nd, 4-6 PM with Dr. Hawkins
- Birmingham Visit: July 30th with Dr. Harper
Key Takeaways
- Report injuries immediately, even if pain seems minor
- Take time to carefully complete all paperwork
- Federal Injury Centers has helped over 10,000 people get claims accepted
- The medical narrative is crucial for claim approval
- Supervisors have limited power in the claims process
This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for federal employees navigating the OWCP claims process from initial injury through potential appeals.
Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com
Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook
To Buy The Book: www.breakingowcp.com
To Email information: Info@federalinjurycenters.com
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Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini