Second Opinion Examinations

The short answer

If OWCP has scheduled a second opinion examination, the appointment is part of your claim, not a separate dispute. The examiner answers the specific medical questions OWCP has asked, usually about diagnosis, causal relationship, or work capacity, and sends a report to the Department of Labor. You do not pay for the examination, and the examiner does not decide whether your claim is accepted. That decision stays with OWCP.

Why OWCP may request one

• The medical evidence in the file conflicts or is incomplete
• A question about whether the condition is work-related remains open
• Your treating physician's opinion needs clarification about restrictions or capacity
• OWCP is considering a change in accepted conditions or benefits

What usually happens

OWCP sends written notice with the date, time, location, and the name of the examiner, along with the questions to be answered. The examination typically includes a history, a physical examination, and review of records. The examiner does not take over your care; after the examination you continue with your own treating physician.

How to prepare

• Read the notice carefully and note the date, time, and location
• Bring photo identification and any records or imaging the notice requests
• Bring a list of medications, current restrictions, and symptoms
• Write down the questions you want to be sure are addressed
• Arrive early and allow time for paperwork
• Attend every appointment unless a genuine emergency prevents it

If you cannot attend

Contact OWCP as far in advance as possible, in writing, and keep a copy of the request. Missing a scheduled examination without explanation can delay a claim or affect benefits. It is not the same as rescheduling an ordinary office visit.

Where Pinpoint Medical fits

Pinpoint Medical's clinicians in Greater Houston perform medical evaluations of work-related conditions, including documentation of diagnosis, functional limitations, and work capacity. Whether a particular examination is scheduled, and which physician is asked to perform it, is decided by the U.S. Department of Labor. Pinpoint does not arrange OWCP examinations on a patient's behalf and cannot influence which physician OWCP selects.

What this page is not

This is general education, not legal advice or an individual medical opinion, and it does not create a physician-patient relationship. Requirements and timelines vary by case, and the notice you receive from OWCP is the controlling instruction.