Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits in MT - Rasmusson Law Offices, PLLC

Sustaining an injury or disease at work can change many things in your life. For example, you may not be able to do the same work you were doing at the time of the injury. If this situation arises, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits. Often times your doctor’s opinion plays a big role in getting these benefits. It is important to note that not every claimant is eligible for vocational rehab.

What is Vocational Rehabilitation?

The purpose of Vocational rehabilitation is to help an injured worker find alternative employment or receive retraining for a new position. These benefits are offered to workers who were injured on the job and are unable to return to their pre-injury position. Often times your doctor will give you restrictions for what you can do physically. These limitations are what lead to vocational rehabilitation benefits. Some employers have the capability to provide accommodations for workers with physical restrictions. However, this isn’t always the case.

Eligibility

As previously mentioned, not every injured worker will qualify for vocational rehabilitation benefits. Montana Code lists the specifics for eligibility. In simple terms, the criteria consists of:

Injury Severity: The injury must be severe enough that it prevents the worker from returning to their pre-injury job. It may result in permanent mental or physical limitations. The worker’s ability to perform tasks essential to their previous occupation may be hindered.
Approval from the Insurer: You must obtain approval from the Workers Compensation insurer for a vocational rehabilitation program. This step is very dependent on your medical status and your physician’s opinion. Your prognosis for recovery and ability to return to work will dictate whether or not the insurer approves a program.
Assessment by a Counselor: The insurer will likely coordinate with a vocational rehabilitation counselor to assess the situation. They will assess the worker’s capabilities and limitations. Once this is established, a job analysis will be prepared for the time of injury job as well as alternative occupations. Through these it will be possible to determine what training or assistance is necessary to gain new skills. Your doctor will likely have to approve these job descriptions as well.

Types of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Vocational rehabilitation benefits can include a wide variety of services. The injured worker’s needs vary from case to case. Commonly offered services include:

Vocational Counseling. A vocational counselor can help assess your strengths, limitations, and career interests. They can help you navigate a job search or retraining. You can also discuss return to work goals with them.
Job Placement. Your vocational counselor can assist in finding you a new job that fits your restrictions. This could be a different or modified position in the same industry. But it could also be a job in a new field that does not require any retraining.
Educational & Training Programs. If new skills and training are required, vocational rehab benefits can cover the cost of this education. This can include going through a training program, college courses, certifications, and vocational courses.
Workplace Modifications. Some employers are in a position to provide adjustments and accommodations to the pre-injury job. If this is the case, you may be able to return to your position and work with your employer to meet your limitations. This may include changes to the environment or supplying new equipment.

Trial Work Period. Some workers may be eligible to participate in a temporary trial work period. This allows the worker to test their ability to perform modified duties in a controlled setting. The purpose of this work period is to gauge the worker’s ability to handle the job before fully committing.

Photo of a young woman on the phone with a cast on her arm. This is showing that the woman is possibly on the phone with an insurance company to discuss her injury or accident as part of workers compensation.

How does the Process Work?

Once the insurer authorizes vocational rehabilitation benefits, the process begins. First, a referral will be placed for vocational rehabilitation services. Next, the worker will undergo an initial evaluation with the vocational counselor. This typically involves a review of the worker’s medical condition, educational background, work history, and a few other factors. After the evaluation the counselor will develop a rehabilitation plan. This can outline the goals of returning to work and what services the worker will receive.

After the plan is developed, the worker will begin taking the necessary steps to return to work. Whether that be retraining, modified duty, etc. The vocational counselor will monitor the worker’s progress. There may need to be some adjustments made to the plan depending on progress made or changes to their condition. Once the rehabilitation plan is complete, the goal is to return to suitable employment. The benefits may change depending on the type of work found.

Conclusion

Vocational rehabilitation is a vital component of Montana’s workers’ compensation system. It provides injured workers with the opportunity to regain their independence and find meaningful work. Even if they are unable to return to their previous job. Understanding your rights to vocational rehabilitation can make a significant difference in your recovery and your future employment prospects. If you have been injured at work in Montana and want help, contact us at 406-549-3323 for a free consultation.