What Is a Medical Call-Up Review?
After your FERS disability retirement is approved, OPM conducts periodic reviews to determine whether your disabling condition continues to prevent you from performing useful and efficient service. This process is known as the "medical call-up review" and is required by federal regulation.
When Does It Happen?
5 CFR 844.401 provides for examination after one year and annually thereafter until age 60 unless OPM finds the disability permanent in character. OPM can require a review when necessary before 60; after 60 medical reevaluation is only at the annuitant's request. A particular review schedule should not be assumed.
What OPM Requires
When you receive a medical call-up questionnaire (Form RI 30-1), you must respond within 90 days. OPM requires:
- Current clinical findings from a recent physical examination, including diagnostic test results
- An update on your condition since retirement, including current prognosis
- An assessment of the specific medical condition(s) that led to your retirement, including plans for future treatment
- A clinical assessment of risk regarding your ability to perform duties of a similar position
Critical Deadlines
RI 30-1 states a 90-day response period. If you cannot respond in time, contact the Medical Call-Up Review Team using the instructions in your notice promptly; the current form expressly tells annuitants to make contact when unable to meet the time limit. Do not assume an extension has been granted. If OPM does not receive the questionnaire and requested medical documentation within 90 days, they may suspend your annuity payments until the information is received. This makes timely response essential.
How to Prepare
Maintain an ongoing relationship with your treating physician(s) and keep your medical records current. When a call-up review arrives, schedule an appointment with your physician promptly to obtain the required documentation. The documentation must be on the physician's or facility's letterhead and signed by the treating physician.
Employment Questions
The questionnaire also asks whether you have recovered sufficiently to return to work and whether you have been employed in the last 12 months. Answer these questions honestly — inaccurate or incomplete information can affect OPM's determination. Keep a complete copy and answer accurately.
Keep reading
- Medical Recovery vs. Earning Capacity
- The OPM Annual Earnings Report
- Restored to Earning Capacity: What Happens Next