(a) When the physician originally selected to provide treatment for
a work-related injury refers the employee to a specialist for further
medical care, the employee need not consult OWCP for approval. In all
other instances, however, the employee must submit a written request to
OWCP with his or her
reasons for desiring a change of physician.
(b) OWCP will approve the request if it determines that the reasons
submitted are sufficient. Requests that are often approved include those
for transfer of care from a general practitioner to a physician who
specializes in treating conditions like the work-related one, or the
need for a new physician when an employee has moved. The employer may
not authorize a change of physicians.
Directed Medical Examinations