If you have been hurt at work, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. This service is offered by your employer and is meant to help you get back to your job. Unfortunately, it's not always feasible to do so. Read on and learn more about some services that help you to work again when your old job is not suitable.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
Not just any hurt worker is qualified for these services. Usually, you must already be receiving workers' comp benefits and be ruled to be permanently disabled before you can take advantage of it. For example, if you suffered a hand injury and your previous job involved light assembly work, your workers' comp insurance may have decided that your injury will never heal enough for you to go back to that same position. You may, however, be able to work at other jobs that are not so dependent on the use of your hands. The overall goal of vocational rehabilitation services is to return you to a job where you can make as close to your previous salary as possible.
What does Voc Rehab offer?
While the benefits do vary somewhat depending on where you live, here are some common benefits that this service offers:
1. Evaluation of your injury to determine your level of functioning
2. Job station and work area modifications that allow you to work with a disability
3. Career interest testing
4. Counseling services (mental health, jobs, etc)
5. Evaluation of job skills
6. Job training
7. Help with job searching skills like resume writing, how to search for a job and sometimes job placement services
How do you get started?
In some instances, your workers' comp insurance carrier sets you up with a referral, and you will meet with a counselor. This counselor will work with you to create a plan of action to get you back to work as soon as possible. It should be noted that while these services won't cost you anything, you must participate in the program to continue getting your workers' comp benefits. In almost all cases, you are entitled to a limited amount of services and for a limited amount of time.
Are you eligible for this service?
There are a few thresholds through which workers must pass before they can be referred for services. Once a certain amount of time has passed after your injury, you will be asked to participate in an independent medical exam. This exam will determine whether or not your injury is expected to heal enough to return to your job. The finding of a permanent disability should prompt you to speak to a workers' comp lawyer for support through the next phase. You can negotiate for a lump sum payment and other benefits, including vocational rehabilitation. Speak to a lawyer to learn more about navigating workers' compensation law.
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