Federal Workers Deserve to Know Their Rights After an Injury
If you’ve been injured on the job as a federal employee, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Between pain, paperwork, and pressure from your agency, you may not know where to begin—or what rights you truly have.
At Rebound Clinics DMV, we help federal workers across Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. not only recover physically but understand their legal rights under the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). Because when you know what you’re entitled to, you can make the best decisions for your health, your career, and your future.
The Truth: Many Injured Workers Aren’t Told the Full Story
We’ve worked with hundreds of federal employees who were never properly informed about:
- Their right to choose their own doctor
- Their right to file a claim without employer retaliation
- Their eligibility for Continuation of Pay (COP)
- Their option to pursue a Schedule Award for lasting injuries
- Their ability to appeal denied claims or request reconsideration
We believe every injured worker deserves to understand these rights—clearly and confidently. That’s why education is part of every consultation we provide.
Know These Core OWCP Rights
Whether you’re just starting your claim or trying to fix a denied one, these are the most important OWCP rights you should know:
1. You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Doctor
OWCP rules (20 CFR 10.300) give you the freedom to select the physician who treats your work-related injury. You do not have to see a doctor chosen by your agency. At Rebound Clinics DMV, we provide fully independent care with no agency bias.
2. You Have the Right to File a Claim Without Fear
It is illegal for a federal agency to discourage, delay, or retaliate against you for filing an injury claim. If you’re being pressured not to file, you have options—including union support, legal protection, and documentation tools.
3. You Have the Right to Continuation of Pay
If you file a CA-1 within 30 days of a traumatic injury, you may be eligible for up to 45 days of paid leave (COP). Your employer must advise you of this option—it’s not optional information.
4. You Have the Right to Appeal a Denied Claim
If your OWCP claim is denied, you can request reconsideration within 12 months. The process can be technical, but it’s often successful with stronger documentation and the right support.
5. You Have the Right to Compensation for Permanent Injuries
Through a Schedule Award, you may be entitled to financial compensation if your work injury causes permanent loss of function in a body part—even if you return to work. Many workers are eligible but never apply simply because they didn’t know about the option.
What You Should Expect from Your Agency
Your federal employer is required by law to:
- Provide you with the proper OWCP forms (CA-1, CA-2, CA-16, etc.)
- Submit their portion of the claim to OWCP within 10 working days
- Give you a signed copy of the claim
- Not interfere with your choice of medical provider
- Offer modified duty if you are medically cleared for it
If you’re not receiving proper guidance from your agency, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It just means you may need additional support—which is exactly what we offer.
How Rebound Clinics DMV Supports Your Rights
We go beyond physical recovery. When you visit one of our clinics, you also receive:
- A review of your claim status and what steps you’re legally entitled to take
- Help requesting necessary forms like CA-16 or CA-17
- Clear explanations of your COP, wage loss, and Schedule Award options
- Medical documentation that supports your claim and your rights
- Assistance communicating with your agency or claims examiner when needed
We’ve seen firsthand how access to the right information can change the outcome of a claim—and help workers reclaim control of their recovery.
Serving Federal Workers Across the Region
With multiple clinics throughout the DMV, we proudly support injured federal employees in:
- Greenbelt, MD: 7701 Greenbelt Road, Suite 104, Greenbelt, MD 20770
- Hyattsville, MD: 2045 University Blvd East, Suite 202, Hyattsville, MD 20783
- Temple Hills, MD: 3611 Branch Avenue, Suite 303, Temple Hills, MD 20748
- Wheaton, MD: 11510 Georgia Ave, Suite 233, Wheaton, MD 20902
- Falls Church, VA: 105 N. Virginia Ave, Suite 309, Falls Church, VA 22046
- Laurel, MD: 9101 Cherry Ln, Suite 205, Laurel, MD 20708
Each location is staffed by OWCP-experienced medical professionals who believe in treating patients with respect—and empowering them through education and advocacy.
Don’t Let Confusion Cost You What You’ve Earned
After a work injury, knowledge is power. The more you understand your rights, the more confident and in control you’ll feel throughout the claims process. At Rebound Clinics DMV, we’re here to help you learn, heal, and fight for what you’re entitled to under the law. Call (301) 798-9188 or schedule online at reboundclinicsdmv.com
Rebound Clinics DMV — Because your recovery starts with your rights.