If you have suffered a workplace injury but are still able to do a certain type of job, vocational rehabilitation may be right for you.
If you’ve had an injury in the workplace that is preventing you from doing your job, it can be very depressing. When you’ve worked hard all your life on a physical job, but now cannot return to do the same job you’re qualified for and experienced in, you may feel inadequate. However, vocational rehabilitation may be an option that you can explore.
What is Vocational Rehabilitation?
Vocational rehabilitation is a program offered through the state to aid workers who have physical or cognitive disabilities. It helps you to find, and keep a job. It can truly help one to live a self sufficient life. These programs are not just for people who have been born with disabilities. Many people who have suffered an injury at work can also use these services to get back to work.
Can You Use these Vocational Rehabilitation Services?
Missouri does not have any laws stating that you are entitled to vocational rehabilitation after a workplace injury. So, you should find out if your workers compensation insurance policy offers vocational rehabilitation as part of the benefits. However, if it doesn’t, don’t give up just yet. There are federal programs that are offered too.
The Benefits of Vocational Rehabilitation
Such a program can help you in several ways. They will talk to you and find out what skills you have. They will then discuss with you the types of work you’d be capable of doing. They will discuss with you your physical and cognitive issues that may restrict the types of work you can do. They will also put together a rehabilitation plan for you. This will set goals for you. They will also be able to help you find a work placement. This may include extra training, or perhaps a college course to learn new skills.
There are many options under the vocational rehabilitation umbrella. You may be able to return to your old job, your previous job may be able to be altered to accommodate your disabilities or your employer may have another job for you. Additionally, if you need to find a totally different job, then the vocational rehabilitation program will help you with this process. They will work with your employer to help them in accommodating your needs. This may be extra equipment such as an adapted desk or tools and they will help your employer to understand your needs and your capabilities.
Ask a St. Louis Workers Compensation Attorney
You needn’t feel like the battle for employment is all yours when you’ve suffered an injury in the workplace. There is help available. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, our attorneys will work with you, regardless of where you are in the process. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, we represent work injury victims throughout Missouri. Handling all cases on a contingency basis, you owe us no attorney fees unless we recover the compensation you deserve.
Call today at (314) 361-4300 or fill out our online contact form.