Bethesda, MD Federal Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Attorneys Helping Federal Employees in Bethesda, Maryland With Claims Through the OWCP
Federal employees in Bethesda, Maryland serve in a wide range of roles, supporting vital agencies and handling matters such as scientific research, national security, healthcare, and more. One of the challenges that unites all federal workers involves the risk of experiencing medical conditions that interfere with their ability to work. Whether they are caused by a sudden accident, exposure to hazardous conditions, or chronic job-related stress, work-related health problems can affect federal employees in many ways.
Federal employees who are injured or experience other health issues related to the work they have performed can receive workers’ compensation benefits under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) administers these benefits, reviewing applications and deciding whether claims should be approved or denied. The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. represents federal workers, helping them secure the benefits they need. Our attorneys can prepare comprehensive claims, assist with medical documentation, and represent employees whose claims have been denied or delayed.
Types of Health Issues That May Qualify for OWCP Benefits
Workers’ compensation benefits through the OWCP may be paid to federal workers who have encountered health issues that have a direct connection to the work performed while carrying out their duties. In some cases, accidents in the workplace may be the cause of injuries, while in others, employees may experience illnesses due to workplace conditions or the duties they perform.
Our lawyers can help address a wide variety of accidents, injuries, and illnesses, including:
- Slips and falls in government buildings
- Vehicle accidents while on duty
- Equipment-related accidents
- Lifting injuries resulting in back or joint damage
- Repetitive stress injuries from typing or repeated motions
- Hearing loss from constant exposure to loud machinery
- Respiratory conditions from exposure to chemicals, dust, or other hazardous substances
- Chronic pain from physically demanding tasks
- Anxiety or panic disorders triggered by work-related trauma
- Depression caused by excessive workloads, harassment, or hostile work environments
- Mental stress stemming from witnessing violence or life-threatening events on the job
To qualify, the employee will need to show that a medical issue was directly related to their federal employment. This often requires more than just a diagnosis. Evidence will need to be provided that links the condition to work duties or events. This may include accident reports, medical records, or statements from doctors or therapists detailing the ways the person’s work environment has affected their health.
Benefits Provided by the OWCP
A workers’ compensation claim may provide a range of important benefits that will help a federal employee recover and return to work or adjust to a long-term condition. Medical benefits should fully pay for all treatment needed to address a work-related health condition. If an illness or injury has led to a temporary disability or has had a permanent impact on a person’s ability to work, they may receive financial compensation covering a percentage of their lost income.
Each type of benefit has specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. Delays, denials, or underpayments are common in situations where a person has not provided adequate supporting evidence or when the OWCP disputes whether a health condition is work-related.
Assisting Federal Workers With OWCP Claims
At The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C., our lawyers can provide assistance by:
- Evaluating Health Conditions: We will work closely with our client to make sure their injuries or illnesses meet the OWCP’s standards for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Gathering and Organizing Medical Evidence: We work with clients and their medical providers to prepare documentation that links the condition to their job duties or incidents in the workplace. By clearly addressing the causes of health issues and showing how they have affected a person’s work capacity, we can help ensure that claims will be successful.
- Submitting and Managing Claims: We will complete and file all forms and documents with the agency and the OWCP. We can make sure the proper deadlines are met, and we will make sure a claim includes all required evidence.
- Appealing Denials: If the OWCP denies a workers’ compensation claim, we can submit a request for the OWCP to reconsider the case, or we can appeal the case to the Employees’ Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB), providing effective representation throughout this process.
Contact Our Bethesda Federal Employee Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
The team at The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. has a detailed understanding of the rules and procedures followed during OWCP claims, and we can help clients avoid common pitfalls while working to help them obtain the full benefits they deserve. To learn more about how we can help you secure the workers’ compensation benefits you need, set up your free consultation by reaching out to us at 866-460-0994.