The Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) provides a range of benefits to federal workers who have been injured or killed in the course of their employment. The statute offers benefits for persons suffering from occupational illness, as well as traumatic injury.

The Medical Benefits Payable to Injured Federal Workers

As a general rule, an injured federal worker may seek reimbursement or payment of the costs of all medical treatment or care necessary to remediate or minimize the consequences of any injury or illness caused by or related to his or her job. Though the costs of such treatment will only be covered if prescribed by an authorized physician, there is no statutory limit on the type of treatment that may be covered. Furthermore, there is no time limit during which medical expenses will be covered.

Under FECA, an injured federal employee may choose to obtain care from a government doctor, or by an approved physician of his or her choice. A broad range of expenses are covered, from first aid and hospitalization to physician’s fees, medications, medical devices and ongoing medical supplies. To qualify for reimbursement, a bill must be submitted no later than one year from service, one year after the calendar year during which the expense was incurred, or one year after the calendar year during which the injury claim was accepted (whichever comes last).

In most instances, expenses related to preventive procedures are not reimbursable under FECA. The statute does, however, contain some exceptions to this rule. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can help you determine if certain preventive medical expenses are covered.

Contact Uliase & Uliase

For an appointment with an experienced New Jersey federal workers’ compensation lawyer, contact us online or call our office at (856) 310-9002. We meet with clients weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. We offer a free consultation for injured workers.