About OWCP Form CA-2a Notice of Recurrence
The OWCP Form CA-2a, also known as the “Notice of Recurrence,” is used by federal employees to report a recurrence of a work-related injury or illness that has already been accepted by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). A recurrence occurs when an employee experiences a return of symptoms or a worsening condition directly related to an initial work-related injury or illness without any new incident causing further injury. This form is critical for federal workers seeking to notify OWCP about their condition’s return and request further medical attention or compensation benefits.
Purpose of Form CA-2a
The primary purpose of Form CA-2a is to document the recurrence of an injury or illness that was previously accepted by OWCP. It allows employees to provide detailed information about the recurrence, including the date of the recurrence, changes in symptoms, and any new medical treatment received. The form helps OWCP determine whether the recurrence is related to the original injury or illness and if further benefits, such as medical treatment or wage-loss compensation, are warranted.
Key Sections of Form CA-2a
- Employee Information: This section gathers basic information about the employee, including name, address, date of birth, and occupation. Accurate identification of the employee helps in linking the recurrence to the original case file.
- Description of Recurrence: Employees must provide a detailed explanation of how their condition has changed or worsened. This includes the date the recurrence occurred, specific symptoms, and any relevant details about how the recurrence is related to the initial injury or illness.
- Medical Information: In this section, employees outline the medical care received due to the recurrence, including names of doctors, treatment dates, and any changes in treatment plans. This information assists OWCP in understanding the medical aspects of the recurrence and validating the claim.
- Supervisor’s Report: The form requires a supervisor’s report to verify the employee’s statements and provide context from the employer’s perspective. This includes confirming the employee’s work status, any light-duty assignments, and whether the recurrence affects the employee’s ability to work.
Submission and Processing
Once completed, the CA-2a form should be submitted to the employee’s agency, which then forwards it to OWCP. Proper submission ensures timely processing of the claim and reduces delays in receiving benefits. Employees must also provide supporting medical evidence that confirms the recurrence and its connection to the original injury or illness.
Importance of Form CA-2a
Form CA-2a is crucial for federal employees to maintain continuity of their benefits when experiencing a recurrence of a work-related condition. Properly completing and submitting this form allows employees to receive necessary medical care and wage-loss compensation, helping them manage the impact of the recurrence on their lives and careers.
