In relation to workers' compensation, what does vocational rehabilitation aim to achieve?

Vocational rehabilitation focuses on helping injured individuals regain their ability to work after a workplace injury. The primary aim is to assist them in transitioning back into the workforce, whether that involves returning to their previous job or finding new employment that accommodates their current capabilities. This process may include skills training, job placement services, and counseling, all tailored to the individual's needs and circumstances following an injury.

By supporting a gradual return to work, vocational rehabilitation not only aids in the recovery of the worker but also benefits employers and the economy by reducing the time spent away from the job, ultimately helping injured workers to resume productive lives. The approach also recognizes that every injured worker's situation is unique, thus the services provided can be customized based on the injury and the worker’s skills, enhancing the likelihood of successful employment outcomes.

This focus on the gradual reintegration of injured workers into the workforce distinguishes it from other options, such as complete recovery or financial independence, which, while desirable, are not the specific goals of vocational rehabilitation programs.