An injury can change the course of your life. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits can help you after an injury, but you might worry about returning to work.
Severe injuries could prevent you from returning to the position you held at the time you suffered your injury. What happens if this is the case?
Under Minnesota law, injured workers are entitled to consult a qualified rehabilitation consultant (QRC) if they request it in these cases. However, many workers might wonder: how can a QRC help?
There are many aspects to a QRC’s role. Here is a brief overview of some of the ways they help injured workers.
1. Determine your entitlement to rehabilitation
Workers’ compensation provides injured workers with many benefits, including wage reimbursement, coverage for medical costs and vocational rehabilitation. Rehabilitation services help workers who cannot return to their previous job after a work injury. However, workers only qualify for rehabilitation if they meet certain conditions, including:
- If the effects of the injury are permanent;
- If this injury prevents you from completing the duties of your previous job; and
- If rehabilitation services can help you obtain gainful employment again.
A QRC evaluates these three factors to determine if you qualify for rehabilitation services.
2. Manage your rehabilitation services
QRCs also play a role in your actual rehabilitation services. They will develop a customized rehabilitation plan to prepare you to return to the working world. If necessary, they will also manage any medical treatment or therapies to rehabilitate your skills.
3. Evaluate your skills and assist with the job search
Additionally, the QRC of your choice will also:
- Analyze your transferable skills;
- Complete vocational testing;
- Provide guidance on vocations; and
- Assist with seeking a job and job placement.
The QRC can help workers at every step of the process to help them find a job that is right for them. They play a considerable role in helping individuals move forward after suffering a life-changing work injury. Overall, QRCs are an advocate for injured workers in all aspects of their role.
If you suffered an injury at work, it may be in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who will protect your rights.