Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
Legal basis: LC §4658.7
Definition
Services aimed at helping an injured worker return to suitable employment when they cannot return to their previous job due to permanent work restrictions. Since SB 899 largely eliminated formal vocational rehabilitation benefits in California workers' comp, these services are now primarily accessed through the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit voucher.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)?
Services aimed at helping an injured worker return to suitable employment when they cannot return to their previous job due to permanent work restrictions. Since SB 899 largely eliminated formal vocational rehabilitation benefits in California workers' comp, these services are now primarily accessed through the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit voucher.
What is the legal basis for VR in California workers' compensation?
Vocational Rehabilitation is governed by LC §4658.7 under California workers' compensation law. This statute defines the requirements, procedures, and standards for vocational rehabilitation in the workers' compensation system as of 2026.
Is vocational rehabilitation covered under workers' compensation in California?
Vocational Rehabilitation may be authorized as part of a workers' compensation treatment plan in California, subject to utilization review (UR) and the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS). The primary treating physician must request authorization through the appropriate channels.