How to Fill Out a CA-17 Duty Status Report for OWCP: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a federal employee receiving OWCP benefits after a work-related injury, the CA-17 Duty Status Report is one of the most important documents you’ll submit during your recovery. At WIN Medical Group in Upper Darby, PA, we help federal workers in Philadelphia, Havertown, Yeadon, and Drexel Hill complete their CA-17 forms correctly to avoid delays or benefit interruptions.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fill out the CA-17 form step by step—and explain how we assist you every step of the way.

What Is the CA-17 Form?

The CA-17 form is used by the U.S. Department of Labor’s OWCP to document:

  • Your current work capacity (based on medical findings)
  • Any physical restrictions due to your injury
  • When you can return to work, and in what capacity

This form is critical because it helps determine if you’re eligible for light duty, continuation of pay (COP), or wage-loss compensation.

Step 1: Understand Who Fills Out Which Sections

The CA-17 has two main parts:

  1. Part A – To Be Completed by the Supervisor: This section outlines your job duties and physical requirements.
  2. Part B – To Be Completed by the Physician: Your treating OWCP doctor completes this part, listing your medical condition and work capabilities.

At WIN Medical Group, we work with you and your federal agency to make sure this form is completed accurately and submitted on time.

Step 2: Ensure Your Supervisor Completes Part A

Before you visit your OWCP-approved doctor, make sure your supervisor has filled out:

  • Box 3–7: Agency details (address, contact info, location code)
  • Box 8–11: Description of your job title, regular duties, and physical requirements (e.g., lifting, walking, standing)

This information allows your doctor to compare your job demands with your physical limitations.

Step 3: Schedule an Evaluation with an OWCP-Experienced Provider

Many doctors are unfamiliar with OWCP paperwork, which leads to incomplete or incorrect forms. At WIN Medical Group, our physicians specialize in federal injury care and complete CA-17 forms properly and quickly.

When you come in, we’ll perform a full medical evaluation and determine your:

  • Diagnosis and injury status
  • Ability to perform your regular job duties
  • Any restrictions (e.g., no lifting over 10 lbs, no standing more than 30 minutes)

Step 4: Physician Completes Part B of the CA-17

This section includes:

  1. Diagnosis: Your current injury status (e.g., lumbar strain, shoulder impingement)
  2. Work Status: Indicating whether you can return to regular, limited, or no duty
  3. Restrictions: Specific physical limits (e.g., no climbing, pushing, or prolonged sitting)
  4. Prognosis: Whether your limitations are temporary or permanent

Your doctor must sign and date the form. At WIN Medical Group, we provide digital or hard copies for both you and your employing agency.

Step 5: Submit Your Completed CA-17 Form

Once the form is complete, submit it to your agency’s injury compensation department. You may also upload a copy to ECOMP to be added to your OWCP file.

Important: You may need to submit updated CA-17 forms every 30 days depending on your case. We help federal employees across Philadelphia, Upper Darby, and West Philly stay compliant and supported during recovery.

Tips to Avoid CA-17 Delays or Denials

  • Always use a federal injury doctor who understands OWCP rules
  • Keep copies of every CA-17 you submit
  • Review the form for accuracy before sending it to your agency
  • Follow up with your claims examiner if your case is pending or disputed

Why Choose WIN Medical Group for CA-17 Support?

We are one of the most trusted federal injury clinics near Philadelphia and Upper Darby. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Experienced with CA-1, CA-2, and CA-17 forms
  • OWCP-compliant documentation that helps get claims approved
  • Clear communication with federal agencies and supervisors
  • Accessible from Havertown, Drexel Hill, and 69th Street Terminal

Summary: The CA-17 Is Key to Returning to Work Safely

Filing a CA-17 correctly ensures:

  • You receive the right care and benefits
  • Your agency understands your limitations
  • You protect your job and income

Don’t leave this to chance—get help from professionals who know OWCP inside and out.

Need Help With Your CA-17 Form? Contact WIN Medical Group Today

At WIN Medical Group, we’ve helped hundreds of federal workers throughout Upper Darby, Philadelphia, Havertown, and beyond manage their OWCP claims with confidence.

📍 Visit us at:
WIN Medical Group
115 E Township Line Rd
Upper Darby, PA 19082

📞 Call now or book an appointment online to get expert help with your CA-17 Duty Status Report and continue your recovery the right way.