The Frequently Asked Questions below were created to assist injured workers in obtaining a general understanding of the vocational rehabilitation services available under the Longshore program. However, this guidance is general in nature and for specific answers to questions concerning provision of services in a particular case, please contact the Longshore program. Visit the Contact Us section of our website for more information.
Overview
The goal of vocational rehabilitation is to help you return to work as quickly as possible, to a job compatible with the work restrictions provided by your physician, with pay as close as possible to your pre-injury wages.
Services Provided
The first option in designing a vocational rehabilitation plan is always to get you back to work with your previous employer as quickly as possible. This lessens the need for training or other services and helps you continue your career with your previous employer. However, even though reemployment with the previous employer is our first option, we cannot force your previous employer to offer you a position. If you are unable to return to work with your previous employer, a return-to-work plan aimed at a placement with a new employer will be considered.
Eligibility
You are eligible to receive vocational rehabilitation services if:
Typically vocational rehabilitation services are not offered until you have reached maximum medical improvement and the evidence supports that you can no longer perform your regular job due to permanent medical restrictions stemming from the work injury.
However, on a case by case basis, vocational rehabilitation services may be considered before you reach maximum medical improvement if your physician has released you to work and the medical evidence indicates that a permanent disability that would prevent you from performing your regular job is likely.
If you have a permanent disability that would prevent you from performing your regular job, you still may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services even if you received a settlement. However, you must be able to support yourself financially during the vocational rehabilitation process.
Vocational rehabilitation based on part-time work restrictions is considered on a case by case basis.
Any claims or medical issues should be discussed with your Longshore Claims Examiner. Visit the Contact Us section of our website for more information.
Costs
Vocational rehabilitation services are FREE to the injured worker. Costs are covered by the Longshore Special Fund.
Getting Started
You, or your attorney, may ask for services by contacting your Longshore Claims Examiner. Visit the Contact Us section of our website for more information. Also, your employer or insurance carrier, may refer you for vocational rehabilitation if you will be unable to return to your previous job due to your work injury.
As long as you are still eligible to receive services (see question #4), you may inquire again at a later date.
No. Participation in DOL sponsored vocational rehabilitation in the Longshore program is entirely voluntary.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Plan
You, in coordination with your vocational rehabilitation counselor, will explore realistic career goals in your local labor market within your medical restrictions based on results of vocational testing, your work history, etc. to determine what types of jobs are best suited for you.
It depends on the type of program and/or training approved and whether placement is pursued with your previous employer or a new employer.
Retraining is not automatic. When developing a return-to-work plan in conjunction with your counselor, it will be determined whether training is necessary for you to obtain employment. Training may be considered if placement with your previous employer is not possible and there is an increased ability to earn significantly higher wages with training.
Costs are limited to the usual and customary fees in your locale. OWCP also tries to use public training facilities.
Training plans are usually short-term; therefore, college programs are usually not considered.
Starting a business is a high-risk activity and continued income cannot be assured; therefore, your rehabilitation counselor will consider placement opportunities in existing businesses in the community, with and without training.
No. OWCP will not pay for moving expenses.
Issues can usually be resolved through your assigned vocational rehabilitation counselor. If they are not resolved on that level, you may contact your Claims Examiner.
Roles and Responsibilities during Vocational Rehabilitation
Compensation Benefits DURING Vocational Rehabilitation
Your compensation benefits should not be affected by participating in a vocational rehabilitation plan.
A small amount not exceed $25 per week may be payable for expenses incurred as a result of approved vocational rehabilitation activities.
This should not happen simply as the result of your participation in the program. However, if it does, contact your Longshore Claims Examiner. Visit the Contact Us section of our website for more information.
Compensation Benefits AFTER Vocational Rehabilitation
Depending on the circumstances of your particular case and in particular whether you are currently receiving disability compensation, you may be entitled to a partial wage loss benefit. This determination, however, depends on the status and circumstances of your particular case. Contact your Longshore Claims Examiner for more information. Visit the Contact Us section of our website for more information.