OWCP Impairment Rating for a Schedule Award Calculations Tutorial

Federal Workers Compensation Coffee Break

Federal Workers Compensation Coffee Break Podcast is an educational podcast that covers relevant federal workers compensation topics that affect injured government employees. Today's podcast covers relevant information about Impairment Ratings for a Schedule Award calculations and eligibility.

Schedule awards are for an OWCP accepted condition arising out of an on-the-job injury. The awards are generally for the permanent loss or use of a scheduled member of the body and usually not for the body as a whole.

As of July 2005 the appropriate method of evaluating the extent of any permanent impairment is found in the AMA's Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, 6th Edition, the use of which has been approved by the OWCP. Among the elements which may be considered in determining the extent of impairment are loss of motion, pain and weakness.

Summary of topics covered in this episode

- Evidence for Pay Rate: OWCP relies on the employing agency to provide documentation of the pay rate at the time of injury (e.g., SF-50 or payroll records). Ensure this is accurate when submitting your CA-7 form.

- Amended Awards: If you seek an amended award for increased impairment, the pay rate remains tied to the original injury date unless new work-related factors establish a later date of injury or recurrence.

- Lump Sum or Periodic Payments: Schedule Awards are typically paid in a lump sum if the employee is back to full duty or retired, but the total amount is still based on the injury-date pay rate, multiplied by the percentage of impairment and the weeks assigned to the body part.

For the latest guidance, check the FECA Procedure Manual Part 2, Chapter 2-0808, or consult with your OWCP claims examiner. If you're unsure about your specific pay rate calculation, provide OWCP with clear documentation from your employer to avoid delays.

The podcaster is Dr. Stephen Taylor, OWCP legal consultant for Oberheiden Law Firm. Dr. Taylor’s contact information is:
https://[email protected] If you need a medical provider or assistance with an OWCP / DOL claim in Tampa, Jacksonville, Pensacola Florida, Mississippi or Daphne Alabama you can make an appointment to see Dr. Taylor, or Dr. Sullivan at the clinic at FWC Medical Centers. To make a consultation with Dr. Taylor call the clinic at 813-215-4356 or go to our website at https://fwcmedicalcenters.net/ or https://mrtherapycenter.com/or https://fedcompconsultants.com/

For responses please email Dr. Taylor at [email protected]

For responses email Dr. Taylor at [email protected]

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