Navigating OWCP Second Opinion Exams: Your Rights, Rules, and Tips

In this episode of Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris & Gini, the hosts dive deep into OWCP second opinion doctor visits – a critical step that up to 90% of federal injury claimants face​. They explain the federal laws (FECA and regulations) that require injured employees to attend these exams, outline your rights (like bringing a witness), and give clear, practical advice for preparing. Listeners will learn why OWCP orders second opinions (e.g. unclear diagnosis, stalled recovery, or conflicting doctors)​
how to handle the appointment, and what to do afterward. The tone is supportive and straightforward, designed for federal workers, union reps and advocates to feel informed and empowered.

Episode Highlights 

Major Takeaways & Practical Tips:

• Attend Every Exam: Under FECA, you must go to the OWCP medical exam as scheduled​. Missing it without a good reason (illness, emergency) can lead to a suspension of your benefits​. Plan ahead (take leave if needed) so you can make it on time.
• Bring a Support Person: You are entitled to bring a witness or advocate to the exam​. This could be a union steward, spouse or coworker. They will quietly observe and may take written notes about the doctor’s behavior, questions asked, and exam duration​. Their presence can deter misconduct and provides a second set of eyes.
• No Recording & Quiet Demeanor: Do not record the exam (audio or video). Federal regulations explicitly forbid recording during OWCP exams​. If the doctor or your witness does anything disruptive, OWCP could cancel the exam and cut benefits. Everyone must remain calm and professional.
• Immediately Document the Visit: As soon as the exam is over (even in your car on the way home), write down everything you remember: the doctor’s name and specialty, how long the exam took, what questions were asked, and how the doctor treated you​. Having a detailed personal account helps protect your case if the exam report seems off.
• Get the Report & Seek a Referee if Needed: After the exam, request a copy of the second-opinion report through OWCP’s ECOMP system​. Compare it carefully with your treating physician’s reports. If the report clashes with your doctor’s findings, you have the right to ask for a referee exam by a board-certified specialist​. This referee will review both opinions and issue a new determination, which can override an unfavorable second opinion.
• Stick to Work-Related Questions: During the visit, answer only questions related to your accepted work injury and its treatment. You are not required to discuss unrelated personal matters (family, other health issues, private life)​. Politely decline or steer the conversation back to job duties and symptoms.

Upcoming Events: Chris & Gini will continue this conversation in person at these upcoming gatherings:

• Florida APWU Convention (Fort Myers, FL) – They’ll be on-site for meetings and a live podcast session with Florida postal union members​.
• FLEOA Rally (Washington, DC) – The following week they’ll join the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association event in DC, a national rally on federal workers’ comp issues​.

Website for Locations. www.federalinjurycenters.com
Contact: 877-787-OWCP or message us Facebook
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Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini