What is meant by "vocational rehabilitation" in Workers' Compensation?

Vocational rehabilitation in the context of Workers' Compensation refers specifically to the support and services provided to help injured employees regain employment that is suitable for their skills and abilities following an injury. This may involve training for new skills, assessment of the employee's capabilities post-injury, and assistance in job placement or returning to their previous employment if possible.

The focus of vocational rehabilitation is on adapting the injured worker to the labor market, considering any limitations resulting from their injury. This process often entails collaboration between the worker, the Workers' Compensation system, medical professionals, and potential employers to ensure that the injured worker receives the necessary support to facilitate their return to work.

While assessing pre-injury vocational skills, treating psychological injuries, and evaluating workplace injuries are important components of the broader landscape of workplace health and safety, they do not directly encompass the primary goal of vocational rehabilitation, which is to assist injured employees in finding and maintaining suitable employment post-injury.