If the nearest doctor who takes OWCP is not close, you are not stuck. OWCP pays reasonable and necessary travel to authorized medical care.
The general rule: up to 100 miles round trip
OWCP considers how available care is near you, your condition, and how you travel. Generally, a round trip of up to 100 miles counts as a reasonable distance. Take the shortest route, and public transportation when it is practical.
When you need approval first
For non-emergency care, ask OWCP in writing before the trip if:
- the round trip is more than 100 miles,
- you would need to fly, or
- you would need an overnight stay.
OWCP says requests it often approves include referrals to a specialist and flights for people in remote areas with little local care.
If you cannot drive or ride the bus
If your medical evidence shows you cannot use ordinary transportation, OWCP may authorize a taxi or special transportation.
Getting paid back
Use OWCP's medical travel refund request form, and keep receipts and a log of dates and miles. If OWCP denies a travel request, you can appeal.
Use the distance to your advantage
If no office in your town is taking OWCP patients, search the larger cities within about 50 miles. A doctor who reliably handles OWCP can be worth the drive.
Find offices that billed OWCP in the last 12 months near you.
Common questions
Does OWCP pay mileage for physical therapy visits?
Travel to authorized medical services is covered as a reasonable and necessary expense, and physical therapy is an authorized service when prescribed. Keep a log of every trip.
What if I live somewhere with no OWCP doctors at all?
Ask OWCP for prior approval for longer travel. The regulation names remote areas with limited local care as a case where air travel is often approved.
Sources
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. This guide explains the rules in plain English and is not legal advice.
