OWCP FAQ
Common questions about psychological treatment and evaluation under federal workers' compensation.
Does an accepted claim mean my psychological condition is accepted?
No. An accepted claim means that one or more conditions have been determined to be work-related and compensable under OWCP. Your psychological condition must be specifically accepted as work-related to qualify for OWCP coverage. If you have an accepted physical condition but your psychological condition has not yet been accepted, you can file a claim for the psychological condition.
Can I choose my own psychologist?
Yes, with limitations. Federal employees generally have the right to an initial choice of treating physician, and this extends to psychologists. If your established treating physician refers you to a specialist, that referral is ordinarily honored without requiring a separate change-of-provider request. If you are unsure about your right to choose in your specific case, ask during intake and we can help clarify.
Does a referral from my treating physician require a change-of-provider request?
Not necessarily. A written referral from your established treating physician to an appropriate specialist is ordinarily honored without a separate change-of-provider request. The specific rule depends on your claim history and OWCP guidelines. We can help you understand which situation applies to you.
What does psychological testing involve, and does it need authorization?
Psychological testing uses standardized questionnaires and cognitive tasks to measure psychological functioning, personality characteristics, and cognitive abilities. Testing typically takes several hours and may span one or two sessions. Some testing requires prior authorization from OWCP before it can be performed. We check the current authorization requirement for your case and obtain authorization before scheduling.
What is the difference between treatment and a second opinion examination?
Treatment is ongoing care provided by a healthcare provider who works with you over time. A second opinion or referee examination is an independent evaluation performed by a provider who has not been treating you, typically to answer a specific clinical question for the claim. Waypoint Psychology does not combine these roles in the same case because they involve different obligations to the patient and the claims process.
What is an OWCP-5a?
Form OWCP-5a is the work capacity form used in federal workers' compensation. It documents your current ability to work, restrictions or limitations, and prognosis. Your treating psychologist completes this form as part of ongoing treatment documentation to keep OWCP informed of your work status. The form is straightforward and is completed in full, not partially.
Will I owe anything out of pocket?
OWCP does not require a copayment or a deductible. Enrolled providers are paid directly by the program. However, OWCP authorization does not guarantee that any particular service will be paid. We verify eligibility and authorization before services begin.
What is a consequential illness under the energy workers' program?
A consequential illness is a separate condition that developed because of an illness already accepted under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOICPA). For example, depression or anxiety can develop in the course of a serious accepted illness. When that connection can be documented by a physician, it may be claimable as a consequential condition. See the DEEOIC page for more information.
People call it a White Card. What is that?
The official name is the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) authorization card, but many people refer to it as the White Card because of its appearance. It is issued by your agency to authorize medical treatment under OWCP. If you have one, bring it to your first appointment. If you do not have one, that is not a barrier to treatment; we can verify your eligibility during intake.
Does being an enrolled provider mean my treatment is guaranteed to be paid?
No. Enrollment as an OWCP provider means we meet the program's credentialing requirements and participate in the program. However, authorization depends on your specific claim, your accepted conditions, and the services provided. We verify eligibility and authorization before services begin, but the ultimate decision to pay for services rests with OWCP.