Can Injured Workers in Tampa Get Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)?
When most people think about the benefits of workers’ comp, they picture financial support. But while covering your medical bills and lost income is important, you might also qualify for additional, non-financial benefits. An obvious example is vocational rehabilitation (VR). What exactly is vocational rehabilitation, and are you eligible to receive this benefit after a Tampa workplace injury?
What Is Vocational Rehabilitation in Florida?
Vocational rehabilitation is a program that helps disabled people find new or “enhanced” employment opportunities. Only those with physical or mental disabilities qualify for this program.
Different people might experience VR in different ways. For example, someone with an amputated arm might have to learn how to use a prosthetic limb before returning to their previous job. Sometimes, people are no longer able to continue with their previous lines of work due to their disabilities. In this situation, VR might involve training for a completely different career path.
Do I Get Vocational Rehabilitation Through Workers’ Comp in Florida?
If you suffered a workplace injury and you still haven’t returned to work 60 days later, you may be eligible for VR through workers’ comp. The insurance company has the option to offer you VR voluntarily. If it does not, then you could be eligible for VR after additional assessments. You may need to go through various evaluations that determine how your disability will affect your career going forward.
Your rehabilitation services may be limited to 26 weeks, but you can get an extension of 26 weeks if necessary after the first rehabilitation period finishes. Generally speaking, VR is a well-established part of workers’ comp, and you should pursue it if you are eligible. You will not have to pay for any of your work-related retraining or recertification programs, and it could help you achieve financial stability in the future.
VR Has Considerable Benefits
If you’re facing a permanent disability, you might not see the point in VR, especially if your injuries have made your current career path impossible to continue. However, VR has considerable benefits that you might not have previously considered. Remember, workers’ comp only covers two-thirds of your average wages. This means that unless you continue with some form of employment, your income and your overall standard of living might decline to a significant degree after a permanent disability.
In addition, vocational rehabilitation could lead to notable mental health benefits. Those who continue to work after suffering disabilities often report better psychological outcomes. In contrast, those who stop working may struggle with a loss of purpose in their lives. This can potentially lead to depression, relationship challenges, and other issues.
Can a Tampa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?
A workers’ comp lawyer in Tampa may be able to help if you need vocational rehabilitation after an accident. This type of benefit can provide you with the skills, experience, and certifications you need to switch gears and pursue a new career path. Consider speaking with The Franco Law Firm, especially if you’re having issues with an existing claim.
Sources:
floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/vocational-rehabilitation-in-florida-workers-compensation-cases-a-comprehensive-review-of-statutory-and-case-law/
customer.flwins.fl.gov/flwins/s/vocational-rehabilitation?language=en_US
