Workers’ compensation benefits include Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits (SJDB) for employees who can no longer perform the duties described in their job descriptions. Qualifying workers receive vouchers for vocational rehabilitation benefits. The vouchers are for educational services to learn new skills, such as tuition, books, and career assistance.
Injured employees must meet established requirements and use the vouchers for the designated services. These conditions can be confusing, and the system may be difficult to navigate. A knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer could explain the process for receiving vocational rehabilitation in Fresno workers’ compensation claims.
In general, an injured worker must meet the following requirements:
An injury becomes a permanent disability when a doctor determines that the patient has reached their maximum medical improvement (MMI) level. This prognosis indicates that the medical condition will not improve with additional treatment. As a result, the medical professional stipulates the restrictions and limitations that prevent them from performing their original job. All parties involved in the workers’ compensation claim must concur with the permanent disability ruling.
As part of an MMI ruling, a physician may identify what work restrictions or limitations apply. For example, an injured employee may not be able to raise arms above shoulder height. This reach limitation prevents the injured worker from stocking shelves, which was their primary job responsibility. Physicians convey their prognosis and restrictions in their medical reports to a claims adjuster using a Return to Work and Voucher Report.
Employers can offer an injured worker a modified or alternative position consistent with the physician’s documented work restrictions. Employees who decline qualifying accommodations become ineligible for SJDB. If no accommodations are offered, employees in Fresno are eligible for SJDB workers’ compensation benefits, including vocations rehabilitation.
When employers modify employee job duties to remove tasks that compromise restrictions, they are offering an accommodation. In most cases, the injured employee returns to work at the same salary. Employers may also expand duties to compensate for the removal of restricted tasks.
Employers also have the option to offer an alternative position. This accommodation allows the injured worker to take a new position within the company. The new position must pay at least 85% of the employee’s original salary and have a similar commute time. The new job offer must be made within 60 days of the doctor’s MMI determination and last for a minimum of 12 months.
The maximum Fresno vocational rehabilitation voucher amount is $6,000, regardless of disability. It is only valid within the State of California and can be used for most in-state programs. Up to $1,000 can be used to purchase a computer to help with retraining. The remainder can be used for certification fees and professional tools. Vouchers are good for two years from the date of issue or five years from the injury date, whichever is later.
The Return-to-Work Supplement Program (RTWSP) is another option for those injured at work. It is a one-time payment to help cover expenses. To qualify, workers must have an SJDB voucher, WCAB Adjudication number, and a Workers’ Compensation claim number. The RTWSP benefit is only available for one year following the SJDB voucher date.
If you have received a permanent disability prognosis, you may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation in Fresno workers’ compensation claims. A skilled attorney could help navigate the process to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Call now to discuss your options.
