As a former NALC letter carrier for Branch 30 in Kansas City, I’ve dedicated my career to advocating for injured federal employees. Now, as the owner of two Federal Injury Centers specializing in orthopedic and physical therapy services, I see firsthand the obstacles injured workers face in accessing timely, specialized care through the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). One of the most pressing issues we encounter daily is the lack of provider specialties willing to accept OWCP patients. This shortage is more than an inconvenience—it’s a roadblock preventing injured workers from getting back to work and living pain-free lives.

The Urgent Need for Accessible Neurologists and Other Specialists

A recent case in our Kansas City clinic highlights this critical problem. We have a patient who cannot return to her job simply because she’s been unable to find a neurologist who will accept OWCP claims. Despite our best efforts to help her locate care, the Department of Labor’s system has failed to provide adequate options. This isn’t an isolated incident—it’s a recurring theme for federal employees across the country.

The process of finding specialists who take DOL patients is unnecessarily complicated and riddled with roadblocks. Providers often refuse to participate due to the bureaucratic hurdles and delayed reimbursements associated with OWCP claims. Meanwhile, injured workers are left without the care they desperately need, prolonging their recovery and jeopardizing their financial security.

Why This Matters

Injured federal employees—letter carriers, clerks, TSA agents, and other public servants—have dedicated their careers to serving our nation. When they’re hurt on the job, they deserve prompt, high-quality medical care. Yet the system designed to protect them often falls short. Without access to specialists like neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and pain management doctors, recovery becomes an uphill battle. These delays can lead to prolonged pain, worsening conditions, and extended time away from work.

The Role of the Department of Labor

The Department of Labor must address this issue urgently. Here are some actionable solutions:

  1. Streamline Provider Enrollment: Simplify the process for specialists to become OWCP-authorized providers. Reduce the administrative burden and offer incentives to encourage more physicians to participate.
  2. Improve Provider Directories: Create a user-friendly, up-to-date directory of specialists who accept OWCP claims. Make it accessible to injured workers, case managers, and medical providers alike.
  3. Increase Reimbursement Rates: Ensure providers are fairly compensated for treating federal employees. Competitive reimbursement rates can make accepting OWCP patients more attractive.
  4. Enhance Outreach and Education: Educate medical professionals about the importance of treating injured federal workers and provide clear guidance on navigating OWCP claims.

Our Commitment at Federal Injury Centers

At Federal Injury Centers, we are committed to bridging this gap as much as possible. Our clinics in Kansas City and St. Louis specialize in orthopedic care and physical therapy for OWCP patients. While we’re proud to offer these services, we recognize that many patients need additional specialties to achieve full recovery. That’s why we’re calling on the Department of Labor to take immediate action.

If you’re an injured federal worker struggling to find care, we’re here to help. Contact us at (816) 452-4488 or visit our website at www.owcpdoctorkansascity.com. Together, we can advocate for change and work toward a system that truly serves the needs of injured workers.

A Personal Mission

As someone who spent seven years as an NALC letter carrier, I’ve walked in the shoes of the people we serve. I know the physical demands of these jobs and the frustration of being sidelined by an injury. This is not just a professional issue for me—it’s personal. Federal employees deserve better, and it’s time for the Department of Labor to rise to the occasion. Let’s ensure that no injured worker is left without the care they need to heal and get back to the work they love.

By Troy Pearson, Owner of Federal Injury Centers in Kansas City and St. Louis

Delays in Medical Care

Fewer Physicians