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d. To identify cases for early intervention, the RS may use ADP reports which list unscreened
cases on the periodic roll, or cases closed after nurse intervention with work tolerance limitations
("K" closures). The RS will use the OWCP-3 to notify the CE of cases which appear appropriate for
rehabilitation services. The CE should concur absent a reason based on the medical evidence for
not doing so, as long as a description of work limitations is in file.
e. To make the referral, the CE should use Form OWCP-14, noting which medical report
contains the weight of the medical evidence and whether the RS or Rehabilitation Counselor (RC)
may contact the attending physician (for instance, to obtain more complete work limitations.
However, the CE should not authorize the RC to contact the attending physician when work
tolerance limitations have been established by a second opinion or referee examiner.)
2-0813-6 Kinds of Services Provided
6. Kinds of Services Provided. While the RS provides some vocational rehabilitation services, he or
she more usually directs the efforts of an RC assigned to the case. Following is an overview of the various
stages and services in the vocational rehabilitation process. (For further information about services, see
OWCP PM 3-300 and 3-200. For the relationship of these services to making LWEC determinations, see
FECA PM 2-814; for review of vocational rehabilitation plans, see FECA PM 2-600.)
a. Initial Interview. Usually the RS or an RC-Screener will interview the claimant by telephone
to discuss the services available and the claimant's attempts to return to work. Cases will be
closed without an interview only if:
(1) The CE-accepted medical restrictions permanently limit the claimant to less than four
hours of work;
(2) The claimant has returned to work or will apparently return to work without
assistance; or
(3) The file shows that the claimant is not eligible for compensation.
The RS or RC-Screener will show the reason for closure on the OWCP-3 and route the case to the
CE.
b. Placement with Previous Employer. Generally, following the initial interview, the case will
be opened for placement with the previous employer, and an RC will be assigned. Unlike the RN,
who attempts to identify light or limited duty for the claimant, the RC will work with the agency to
modify the claimant's job or identify another position within the agency which the claimant can
perform. If placement with the previous employer is not feasible, the RC will usually be asked to
develop an alternative plan, based on vocational testing, which may include medical rehabilitation,
training, and/or placement services.
c. Medical Rehabilitation. Services needed to correct, minimize or modify an impairment
caused by injury or disease so that the claimant can return to an adequate level of function and
employment are grouped under the term medical rehabilitation. They differ from medical services,
which are provided to cure or give relief from the effects of an injury. Medical rehabilitation
services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy; orthotics; prosthetics; and psychiatric
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