News
Category: Workers Comp
Vocational Rehab in Ohio BWC Claims
What is vocational rehab and who is it for? More commonly called “voc rehab,” this is a set of services offered to an eligible injured worker (IW) who, due to an industrial injury or occupational disease, needs assistance to return to work, retain employment, or obtain new employment. Not all claimants will be eligible. BWC determines eligibility for Voc Rehab (VR) services based on these criteria. TPAs or employers can contact their MCO’s VR Program Coordinator with eligibility questions. Does the injured worker return to work for the original employer (where the injury occurred) or look for work elsewhere? Either option is possible. The VR case manager performs an initial assessment and file review, then makes a recommendation. An important part of the initial assessment is referred to as determination of the “return-to-work hierarchy.” This is typically followed by approval from your MCO’s Voc Rehab Program Coordinator. The VR case managers are responsible for systematically going through the four levels of the hierarchy & ruling options out based on info obtained at the onset of the case, and throughout the process until the hierarchy level is reached that fits the IW’s situation. The research-supported priority outcomes for return to work minimizes disruption in the IW’s life & ensures the most cost-effective, efficient, and permanent re-employment for that IW. The hierarchy in desce
Modified Duty Off-Site Programs
Understanding Modified Duty Offsite Work - What is it, and who is it for? Employers in industries without fixed worksites, like trucking and construction, have been taking advantage of modified duty offsite (MDOS) work for several years - but it can be a good fit for employers of all industries. If an employee is injured at work, their treating physician may provide restrictions detailing what they can and cannot do. Even when the restrictions seem easy to work around, some businesses are still unable to accommodate them because of the manual nature of their industry. With no option for light or restricted duty, the injured worker (IW) is placed on Temporary Total Disability (TTD), meaning that either the employer or Ohio BWC is providing compensation for their lost wages. This raises claim costs, which can raise Ohio BWC premiums as a result. MDOS can make a positive impact for everyone involved by providing the IW an opportunity to perform duties for a non-profit until they’re able to return to full duty with their employer. Maintaining a daily schedule and physical activity while recovering from a workplace injury are key factors in an employee’s return to work plan. What is the purpose/advantage of a modified duty offsite (MDOS) work offer? MDOS facilitates meaningful work for the injured worker through MDOS. Many IWs that have been provided this option have said that working for charity just “feels good.” It removes a significant barri
