Every employee has the right to a safe workspace, but there are still factors that might lead to injuries. When a worker suffers an on-the-job injury, they will likely need immediate medical attention. This is a chance for them to learn what type of injury they have and embark on a treatment plan for that injury.
Catastrophic injuries may mean that the worker is unable to return to work right away. This can cause financial hardship. For most injured employees, workers’ compensation will cover the costs of medical care and provide partial wage replacement if the worker can’t return to work within a short time.
What happens if the worker can’t return to their previous position?
There are instances in which a worker can’t return to work after they suffer an on-the-job injury. If there’s a chance the worker will be able to do other job duties, they may be able to go through vocational rehabilitation. This is a program that enables the individual to learn new skills that will allow them to find gainful employment in another career.
Vocational rehabilitation is important for some workers because it boosts their ability to be self-sufficient. The exact services offered as part of the rehab can vary, but most include training and job placement assistance.
Injured workers should ensure their rights to receive specific benefits are upheld, even if they have to fight to make that happen. It may be beneficial for them to work with someone who can assist with ensuring they get all the benefits they’re due.
