In 1916, the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) was implemented to safeguard federal workers against injuries or illnesses sustained in the course of their employment. The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) under the Department of Labor (DOL) is responsible for overseeing the federal workers’ compensation programs.
FECA is designed to prevent federal workers from being deprived of wages in the event of a workplace injury. It mandates that the OWCP, under the DOL, covers all necessary medical care, supplies, and treatments. Additionally, FECA ensures that workers are entitled to at least two-thirds of their pre-injury wages, with higher benefits for those with dependents or traumatic injuries. These benefits are guaranteed to be provided for the duration of the disability.
FECA laws prioritize the well-being of federal workers by ensuring prompt medical care and rehabilitation, aimed at facilitating their return to work and full wages. Additionally, FECA allows workers the freedom to select their own medical provider, instead of being restricted to a doctor designated by their manager. This empowers workers with greater control over their healthcare decisions and promotes their recovery and return to the workforce.
In the event that your injury has resulted in an inability to perform your previous job duties, OWCP provides options for vocational rehabilitation and job placement into a new position under the provisions of FECA.
Furthermore, if you are able to return to your previous position, FECA mandates that your employer treats you as if you had never left in terms of your length of employment and associated benefits. In other words, the clock continues to run without interruption, ensuring that you are not disadvantaged due to your injury in terms of your employment tenure and benefits with your employer.
In the unfortunate event of a federal worker’s passing due to an injury or disease related to their work duties, FECA provides set benefits to their survivors.
While the laws governing federal worker benefits are clear, the claims process can often involve complex administrative procedures. Our team of specialized administrators is well-versed in handling the necessary red tape to ensure successful filing of claims and receipt of owed benefits. We offer comprehensive support services to our patients throughout the entire claims process, free of charge, to assist them from start to finish.
