Vocational Rehabilitation Consulting
ORCI’s vocational services assist individuals in developing and achieving vocational goals.
Our Vocational Consultants work closely with the employer and medical providers to determine if the claimant will be able to return to the pre-injury position or other positions with that employer. ORCI will assist the employer in making modifications, if possible, to assist in returning the claimant to suitable employment in their workplace.
If the individual is unable to return to his pre-injury employer, our expert vocational staff will assist in developing a rehabilitation plan with specific goals and means to achieve those goals. We administer vocational testing, transferable skills analysis, job seeking skills training, resume preparation and career counseling. ORCI will also locate appropriate positions for the claimant and assist the claimant with interviewing skills.
Our vocational experts also will conduct individual labor market surveys and earning capacity evaluations to determine the availability of suitable jobs for the injured worker. Listed below are definitions of each individual service.
Vocational Testing
Vocational testing can include aptitude, achievement and interest testing. Testing determines current interests and aptitudes, as well as reading, writing, comprehension and mathematical ability.
Transferable Skills Analysis
A transferable skills analysis is an effective tool in establishing and identifying existing and new occupations. The transferable skills analysis considers the workers’ education, work history, demonstrated aptitudes, temperaments and general educational development. It also takes into consideration the fact that an individual’s capacity to perform work may be reduced by injury or disease.
Job Analysis
A Job Analysis is essential for understanding the physical, environmental, educational and psychosocial elements of a specific job. The purpose of the job analysis is to determine if the individual’s physical, educational and mental condition adhere to the requirements of that particular position. A Job Analysis is conducted to match the specific position to the individual. Ideally, the Job Analysis is conducted using an observation-interview method to provide a clear and accurate picture of the position. If this is not feasible, a Job Analysis can be conducted utilizing standardized resources and verifying them with the specific job description of the employer.
Transitional Work Programs
ORCI can assist employers in developing Transitional Work Programs. The purpose of the Transitional Work Program is to provide employees with temporary medical restrictions allowing them to return to work and perform value-added tasks consistent with medically documented capabilities. Development of Transitional Work Programs includes assistance and recommended modifications to already existing positions and/or development of new positions. Transitional Work Programs may also provide the employer with credit benefits for Workers Compensation premiums. Services also include development of policies and procedures that assist in obtaining these credits.
Job Modifications
ORCI can complete work site observations and provide recommendations for temporary and/or permanent job modifications for individuals with injuries and illnesses. This may include simple task modification or restructuring of tasks. Recommendations can also include equipment modification or purchases that are specific to the disability.
Return to Work Coordination
ORCI provides return to work coordination between the physician, physical therapist, any other medical provider, the employee and employer. Our services are designed to ensure a continuity of care. We work closely with all parties to determine if the employee will be able to return to the pre-injury position or another position with that employer. As explained in the Job Modifications description, we can assist the employer in making modifications to the position, when possible. If return to work at the pre-injury employer is not an option, ORCI can initiate other services to the employee such as career counseling and exploration, job seeking skills training, job placement services and employment searches.
On the Job Training
On the Job Training Plans are developed for placement with a new employer. This allows the employee the ability to develop knowledge and skills provided by an employer for a particular occupation.
Career Counseling & Exploration
Career counseling is provided to individuals for career guidance. This can lead to direct placement into the workforce. This can also identify the availability of retraining options leading to placement in the labor force. These services are conducted with a cooperative effort from the individual. Career counseling services include an evaluation of the education, skills, vocational potential, outlook, vocational alternatives and earning capacity. Vocational testing is conducted to determine aptitude, achievement, academic functioning and interest areas. Occupational Research is conducted to apply government, industry and local labor market statistics on job availability, wages and occupational information to appropriately develop a suitable vocational goal.
Job Seeking Skills Training
ORCI provides individuals with training to assist them in all phases of securing a job from start to finish. This includes pre-interview training such as prospecting, filling out job applications and building a resume. It also includes teaching the candidate interviewing skills such as how to prepare for the interview, appropriate dress and appearance and how to answer difficult questions. It also includes training on how to follow-up with employers, how to negotiate salary and how to properly document their efforts in securing workforce placement.
Job Placement Services
ORCI develops vocational plans for Job Placement Services in order to facilitate the direct placement of the worker into the workforce. This service takes into consideration of the individuals’ transferable skills, the labor market, functional capabilities and reasonable economic requirements. The worker is expected to fully participate in job placement efforts.
Employment Searches
ORCI seeks and identifies current open and available jobs within the individual’s capabilities, skills and geographic location. Referrals are made to the individual and feedback can be obtained from the employer regarding the application and/or interview process. This feedback is provided to the employee for improvement of skills for successful placement in the workforce.
Retraining
Formalized training plans are designed to allow the employee the opportunity to attend school and obtain another occupation that leads to suitable gainful employment.
For additional information regarding these services, please contact ORCI at 1-866-400-6724 or email