Pain management programs
The claim manager determines if a vocational assessment is needed. This can be done before or in conjunction with the screening evaluation or pain management program. This decision is made on a case by case basis based on the worker's claim file.
Work hardening programs
Providers can identify workers who may benefit from these programs and discuss referral options with the claim manager.
Prior to a worker entering a work hardening program, the provider should:
- Provide a job analysis for the program goal to the work hardening provider.
- Explore return-to-work options including the previous job to identify a job goal.
- Assist with job modifications, if appropriate.
During a program the provider should:
- Maintain contact with all parties.
- Attend worker conferences.
- Review work hardening reports.
Providers should bill work hardening services as part of the referral.
For more information:
Additional information
Physical and mental limitations
Providers must consider the pre-injury capacities along with any physical or mental limitations from the industrial injury.
Preponderance of medical information
The preponderance of medical information should show, as a whole, that the medical evidence supporting the vocational decision is more convincing than the opposing evidence.
Temporarily unable to participate in vocational services
Occasionally, a worker (due to a related or an unrelated temporary medical condition) is medically unable to participate in vocational services.
