From Paperwork to Back to Work, and Everything In-Between!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am injured?
- Go to the nearest emergency room if your injury requires immediate medical attention
- Notify your supervisor and union steward immediately of your injury
- Obtain an incident report
- Call Elite to start your claims process 800.719.0677
What types of injuries covered?
OWCP classifies injuries into 3 categories:
- Traumatic Injuries- defined as a condition caused by a specific event or series of events within a single work day or shift. It is identifiable as to time and place of occurrence and member or function of the body affected. Examples might include: motor vehicle accident, slip and fall, dog bites.
- Occupational disease- defined as a condition caused by to exposure to work factors over a period longer than one work day or shift. Examples include: carpel tunnel syndrome, orthopedic strains caused by repetitive trauma, plantar fasciitis.
- Reoccurrence- defined as a spontaneous return of symptoms or increase of disability due to a previous injury or occupational disease without intervening causes, or a return or increase of disability due to a consequential injury. An example would be symptoms returning that are directly related to a previously approved OWCP claim.
How do I know if I should file a CA-1, a CA-2, or a CA-2a?
- If you suffered a traumatic injury- file at CA-1
- If you suffered an occupational injury- file a CA-2
- CA2a has very specific requirements and we encourage you to contact us or seek advice from a knowledgeable source prior to filing
- We advise all of our clients to CONTACT US prior to filing a new claim.
Are there time limits on filing a claim?
- CA-1 must be submitted within 30 days of date of injury.
- CA-2 must be submitted to employing agency within 3 years of the date when the employee becomes aware of a relationship between the medical condition and the employment, or the date of last exposure.
- CONTACT US for assistance in filing your claim.
What is the benefit of working with Elite vs doing it myself?
The claims process can be confusing and overwhelming. Elite simplifies the process for you. By having both treatment and claims management teams, we are able to help with your injury and claims needs.
Can you choose your own doctor?
YES!! You have the right to select your own doctor and it is the first step in the recovery process. While recommendations may be made by your employer, you have the ultimate decision in who treats you. It is important that you select a physician that is experienced and has your best interest in mind. More info on CHOOSING A PROVIDER can be found here.
How much will I pay?
There are no upfront out of pocket expenses with the services we offer here at Elite. We bill our services under the US Department of Labor. From help with filing your claim, to medical evaluation and treatment, and continued support of claims management, there is NO out of pocket cost to you.
CONTACT US today- remember there is NO COST to you.
Can I receive compensation for my injury?
Once your claim has been approved, you may be entitled to claims benefits that can include (but are not limited to): medical expenses, compensation benefits, lost wages, reimbursement of mileage expenses for travel to/from medical appointments, and death benefits.
Can I receive treatment and support if my claim is not yet approved or has been denied?
YES! We can get you the medical treatment and support you need regardless of claim status.
CONTACT US today to get the help you need.
What if my claim has been denied?
If your claim has been denied, let us help you determine the reason why. Denials can be due to improper filing and/or documentation. We specialize in helping you find a solution to these denials.
CONTACT US for help with your denial.
What are the 5 basic elements to file a claim?
- Timely filing- specific deadlines exist that must be met when filing
- Civil employee- you must be a covered federal employee injured on the job
- Fact of Injury- this is a factual, detailed statement of your accident or condition
- Performance of Duty- injury or condition must be related to actual work duties or activities reasonably related to work activities.
- Causal Relationship- the link between work related exposure/injury and the medical condition found.
Without these 5 basic elements being met, a claim will be denied.CONTACT US with questions.
