OWCP Form CA-16: Authorizing Your First Medical Visit
Form CA-16 is issued by your agency to authorize medical examination and treatment for a traumatic injury, so you can be seen right away while OWCP reviews your claim.
Who completes it
Your supervisor or injury compensation office issues the CA-16. The physician who treats you completes the back of the form and bills OWCP.
When to use Form CA-16
- You suffered a traumatic injury at work and need care now.
- You have filed, or are filing, a CA-1.
- You want your first visits authorized before the claim is formally accepted.
Deadlines and tips
- Ask for the CA-16 as soon as possible after the injury; agencies are expected to issue it promptly.
- A CA-16 is generally valid for up to 60 days from the date it is issued, unless OWCP ends it sooner.
- You can name the physician of your choice on the form.
- CA-16s are for traumatic injuries; they are not normally issued for occupational disease claims.
How Injury Federal Clinic helps
Bring your CA-16 to your first visit. If your agency has not issued one, call us and our claims team will walk you through the next step so your care can start.
Common questions
Can I be seen without a CA-16?
Often, yes. Call us with your claim details and we will explain your options based on where your claim stands.
Can my agency send me to its own doctor instead?
Under FECA you have the right to choose your initial treating physician. You can request that the CA-16 name the doctor you choose.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. OWCP and your claims examiner make all coverage decisions; check current instructions on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
