Training Resources
Training Resources
https://www.dol.gov/owcp/dfec/regs/compliance/dfecfolio/feca-pt2/group2.htm
A schedule award is a cash “settlement” at the end of an OWCP injury claim that is awarded to certain body parts after the MD determines a patient to be at Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).
Impairment Ratings are performed by the MD, based on the 6th Edition Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. Some doctors make the mistake of using an outdated edition, usually the 5th edition. These will always be denied. The 6th edition must always be used, no exceptions.
The 6th edition guide can be found at lots of places, including at Amazon.com here
It’s wise to be trained in the 6th edition if you have not been trained already. Many training resources can be found online.
After determining an impairment rating percentage, you then have to input that percentage into the formula below:
Percentage of Loss. This percentage is applied to the number of weeks specified in section 8107 of the FECA or in 20 CFR §10.404. The resulting number of weeks is multiplied by the weekly wage and the compensation rate. For example,10% (the actual percentage of impairment) X 244 weeks (100% loss of use of the hand) = 24.4 weeks.24.4 weeks x $400 (weekly pay rate) x 75% (compensation rate) = $7320.
https://www.dol.gov/owcp/dfec/regs/compliance/dfecfolio/feca-pt2/group2.htm#208087
Go to Chapter 2-0208: Exhibit 1: Percentage Chart for Schedule Awards to find the number of weeks for the formula above.