Workplace injuries come in many forms, from minor sprains and cuts to lasting disabilities that can significantly affect a person’s life. When a disabling condition requires major life changes, your ability to earn a living can be impacted.
Vocational rehabilitation in Downey workers’ compensation claims is available to help workers transition into new positions or industries when their condition prevents them from returning to their previous profession. A dedicated workers’ compensation attorney can provide insight into when these benefits are available.
In Downey workers’ compensation cases, vocational rehabilitation is a type of benefit available through the claims process. While most people focus on having their medical costs covered and recovering their lost wages, these benefits can play a major role in a person’s ability to earn a living in the future.
This program assists injured workers with acquiring the skills or training needed to transition to a different position or an entirely new industry. The purpose of these benefits is to provide a path to employment for someone who can no longer meet the physical or mental requirements of their previous line of work, but is able to perform other work-related tasks.
In the state, these benefits can take different forms. For many, it involves job training or re-training programs designed to keep them working at their current employer in a different position. In some cases, it is necessary to complete a formal education like a bachelor’s degree in order to have the background needed for a new career.
Other services include help with resume writing and interview preparation. There are benefits related to every aspect of qualifying for a new line of work and securing a job. Other tools include job placement assistance and support for securing any necessary professional licenses.
Not every person hurt on the job in Downey who files a workers’ compensation claim will qualify for vocational rehabilitation benefits. These programs are limited to those who were not only hurt at work, but whose injuries prevent them from returning to their prior line of work. This is different than situations where a person simply needs to heal from their injuries before they are well enough to fill their previous position. These qualifying individuals are unable to fill their old roles even after they have reached what is known as maximum medical improvement.
Maximum medical improvement, or MMI, means that a person’s condition has stabilized. In other words, no amount of medical care will improve their condition further. This means the remaining consequences from their injuries are permanent.
Finally, the role of the treating physician is important. A person can only receive vocational benefits if their doctor determines that they cannot return to their previous position, but are well enough to work in some other capacity.
If you have questions about eligibility requirements for vocational rehabilitation in Downey workers’ compensation claims, you can discuss your options with our team. You might have a case for various types of benefits, including those related to training for your new career.
Our attorneys are ready to help you plan for the future. Reach out to Glauber Berenson Vego to learn how we could help you get the benefits you need to reshape your career after an injury at work.
