Return to Work through the Workers’ Compensation

Return to Work through the Workers’ Compensation Commission’s Rehabilitation Services
The Basic Idea of Rehabilitation Services
Most workers in the state of Connecticut are protected by workers’ compensation insurance. In addition to provisions covering the loss of earnings and medical care, the Workers’ Compensation Act provides for Vocational Rehabilitation. This service is designed to help you begin to overcome any permanent and substantial loss of earning power you may have suffered as a result of a compensable injury or occupational disease.

The main goal of Rehabilitation Services is to help the injured worker get back to work in a position that is physically appropriate. Prompt and well-planned vocational rehabilitation may help prevent future injuries. Early referral may help the injured worker return to the job market sooner than otherwise might be possible.

Who May Be Eligible?
You may be eligible, if your injury or occupational disease has resulted in permanent limitations which do not allow you to return to your regular job.

You must also have an accepted compensation claim or an approved stipulated agreement.

What Services are Provided?
Each person’s program will be individualized, based on their needs. Services may include:

  • Vocational Counseling
  • Evaluation
  • Aptitude/Interest Testing
  • Training/Education
  • Job Seeking Skills
  • Placement Assistance
Am I Guaranteed A Job?
No one can guarantee you a job. You are, however, guaranteed that your Rehabilitation Coordinator will do everything possible to assist you in your efforts to return to work. This will include advice as to how to best apply for work and where openings in your field may be available.
When Should I Apply?
Apply to Rehabilitation Services as soon as your doctor sees a problem with you returning to your regular work.

Fact: You can refer yourself.
Fact: You don’t have to wait until maximum medical improvement. 18
Fact: You do not need a high school diploma and you do not need to speak English.
Fact: THE SOONER YOU APPLY, THE GREATER YOUR CHANCES FOR SUCCESS!

How Do I Apply?
You can apply by calling the central Workers’ Compensation Commission office at (860) 493-1500 and asking for Rehabilitation Services. We will send you a brochure and an application.

When your application is received, your case will be assigned to a Rehabilitation Coordinator and you will be scheduled for an interview. At that time we will begin the eligibility process and answer any questions you may have. For a more detailed description of the program, please see the Client Handbook.

A Message to Employers
A company’s most valuable asset is its work force. The sooner an injured employee can be returned to work, the lower the cost for the work-related injury. Rehabilitation Services can work with you, if a job modification or new skills are necessary to return your injured employee back to work. Rehabilitation Services has contracted with a Rehabilitation Engineer to provide a one-time work-site consultation for possible job modifications. New skills may be learned through classroom training or from on-the job training. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU FOR THESE SERVICES.
On-The-Job Training
Rehabilitation Services offers financial incentives for employers to take the time to train injured workers to return to the work force with new skills and abilities. Rehabilitation Coordinators are available to discuss your needs. The length of time for training varies based on the skill level of that position.
Is It Worth the Effort?
Only you can decide this. The best outcome of a work-related injury is a successful return to work as quickly as possible. Rehabilitation Services and its staff of Counseling Coordinators are ready to help you help yourself.
Contact
Workers’ Compensation Commission Rehabilitation Services
21 Oak Street, 4th Floor
Hartford, CT 06106-8011
Telephone: (860) 493-1500