Federal Workers' Compensation (OWCP) in Chicago

How federal claims differ

Federal employees are covered by the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA). The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) authorizes treatment and pays medical bills under that program. That is a separate system from Illinois workers' compensation, with its own forms, claim numbers and billing portal.

Why provider enrollment matters

The Department of Labor requires medical providers to be enrolled with OWCP to be paid for treating injured federal employees. Enrollment is free and is not a PPO; it is a registration so bills and authorizations route correctly. Bills from unenrolled providers are returned. Before you book with anyone, ask whether they are enrolled.

What we do for federal employees

Work Comp Chicago is a scheduling service for injured workers. For federal employees, we connect you with providers who are enrolled with OWCP and who treat the kinds of injuries federal work causes: back and neck strain, shoulder and knee injuries, hand and wrist problems from repetitive tasks, and injuries from falls and vehicle incidents on the job.

What to have ready

• Your OWCP claim number, if one has been assigned
• Your agency's name and your supervisor's contact information
• The date of the injury and a short description of what happened
• Any paperwork your agency gave you about the injury

Common federal jobs we see

Postal carriers and clerks, TSA and airport staff, VA hospital staff, federal building maintenance and security, and field employees of federal agencies. The injuries track the work: lifting, repetitive motion, long hours on your feet, and vehicle incidents.