When you receive Workers’ Compensation, vocational rehabilitation may be part of your benefits. Vocational rehab provides training and support to help you return to independent, gainful employment after a serious work-related injury or illness.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
Vocational rehabilitation gives you the tools and services needed to return to work at or near your pre-injury level, or to transition into a new job if your medical restrictions prevent a full return to your previous position.
Are you Eligible for Vocational Rehab?
You are generally eligible for vocational rehab once your treating doctor clears you to return to light or regular duty and the workers’ compensation carrier determines you need help returning to the workforce.
Where will you Receive Vocational Rehab?
Your former employer may offer modified duties or a different role within the company. If an in-house option isn’t available, a counselor will work with you on testing, resume updates, training, and job search activities, and you can review related coverage options such as Rehabilitation insurance.
What Happens During Vocational Rehab?
A job counselor evaluates whether you can return to your former employer, possibly with accommodations. If not, the counselor will identify transferable skills, suggest training or education, and help you find employment with another employer; some claimants pursue programs related to medical or physical rehabilitation through policies like Medical Physical Rehabilitation Insurance.
How Long Does Vocational Rehab Last?
Vocational rehab benefits commonly last up to two years, though some people need less time. Use the available services to find a job that fits your skills and interests.
What Salary will you Earn After Vocational Rehab?
Ideally, you will return to pay close to your pre-injury salary, but if you change careers or accept entry-level work after retraining, your earnings may be different.
What if you don’t Agree with the Vocational Rehab Outcome?
You and your counselor should work together to find a suitable position; if you feel an offer is unsuitable or you were pressured into a lower-paying job, you may have grounds to appeal through your state’s workers’ compensation process.
Your Workers’ Compensation benefits include vocational rehabilitation—use this benefit to regain employment and financial independence. If you have questions about the specifics of your claim or benefits, talk to your human resources manager or talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for vocational rehabilitation services?
Workers’ compensation typically covers vocational rehab services when they are part of your approved benefits, and the carrier or employer arranges the services.
Can I choose my own vocational counselor?
In some states or cases you may request a specific counselor, but the workers’ compensation carrier or employer often assigns the vocational counselor who manages your program.
Will vocational rehab force me into a lower-paying job?
The goal is to find suitable employment that matches your skills and restrictions; if an offered job is clearly inferior, you can discuss options or appeal the outcome.
Can vocational rehab include education or retraining?
Yes, approved programs can include schooling, on-the-job training, or trade courses to help you re-enter the workforce in a stable position.