When filing an OWCP claim, choosing the right DOL doctor is an important step. Whether you work for USPS, TSA, or any other federal job, if you suffer an on the job injury, you could be eligible for federal worker compensation. You will need to schedule a consultation with a DOL doctor to have your injuries assessed and documented. Here are some important items to be sure you bring to your appointment.

A Record of Your Injury

Your DOL doctor will want to know key information about your injury such as how it happened, how you are faring, what your symptoms are, and various other facts. Recording this information prior to visiting the doctor’s office, will ensure you don’t leave anything out when informing the doctor of what happened. The DOL doctor might also want you to bring a list of any medications you are currently taking. The more information a doctor has, the better they will be able to assess the situation and advise you on proper treatment. Any documentation the doctor has will also be helpful in your OWCP case in proving your injury and need for time off. Be prepared for your appointment and come with an accurate record of your on the job accident.

A Support System

Injuring yourself at work can be a traumatic event. Because of this, it might be a good idea to bring someone to support you when you visit the doctor’s office. This person can advocate for you if you forget to mention an important detail of the injury. They can also ask questions that you might not think to ask. Often time, an on the job injury could impair your driving abilities and you will need someone to get you to and from your appointment. Have a friend who will support you throughout the whole federal worker’s comp process to ensure you get to appointments on time and have all the accurate information you need about how to care for your injury.

A List of Questions

After an on the job injury, you might have a list of questions for your doctor pertaining to your treatment plan and your OWCP claim. Make a note of the answers to your questions so you can refer to them later. It is imperative to follow the doctor’s orders to receive federal worker’s comp benefits, so write down instructions. If you think of any other questions, jot them down and ask your DOL doctor at a follow-up visit.