Triage assessment referral
Procedure summary
Published On
Purpose | To refer a worker for a Re-employment services triage assessment or a documentary review. |
Description | The decision maker reviews the claim to determine the need for re-employment (RE) services for the worker. A discussion with the employer and worker provides information needed to make a re-employment services decision. In most cases, the decision maker refers the worker for a triage assessment as it is the first step in the worker's re-employment plan. In some cases, the re-employment provider may refer the worker for a triage assessment toward the endApproximately two-thirds through the treatment program. of a treatment program, if appropriate. During the triage assessment, a re-employment provider collaborates with the worker to assess their needs and transferrable skills, and to identify the skills needed to support the worker's return to work. The re-employment provider makes recommendations for the services that will best suit the worker. The decision maker actions the recommendations, authorizing services and benefits, as appropriate. The recommended services can range from supported job search resourcesCreating resumes, support on finding job postings, preparing for interviews, etc. to equip the worker with the tools needed to start looking for work immediately to essential skilling-upSkilling up may include assessments or training to upgrade computer skills, ESL (English as a second language), customer service skills or general diploma, etc. services or other assessments to assist the worker in returning to work. |
Key information | Re-employment services proceed when a worker is fit for work but has restrictions because of their compensable injury. Re-employment (VR01) interim benefits can start as soon as the worker is considered job ready, a fitness for work decision letter has been sent and the worker has been referred for a triage assessment. These benefits end once the worker starts supported job search services or retraining. Re-employment services most often begins with a triage assessment to determine which services will support their return to work. Most workers will be ready to start their supported job search without any skilling up or retraining. The re-employment triage assessment is the worker's entry into re-employment services. Typically, the worker has completed the treatment for their compensable injury, but in some cases, they may participate in a triage assessment while they are still in treatment when long-term or permanent work restrictions are anticipated. When re-employment services start before the worker completes treatment, temporary disability benefits continue until the worker is considered job ready and a fitness for work decision is communicated. The RE provider interacts directly with the worker, in most cases, but some services can be completed on a documentary basis. Documentary re-employment services may be considered when the worker is unable or unwilling to participate or the worker has completed re-employment services in the past, and additional information is required that can be obtained without worker involvement. The goal is to involve worker in the re-employment process wherever possible. As of April 1, 2021, workers have a duty to cooperate in their return to work and vocational rehabilitation (re-employment). Cooperation means full participation and disclosure, as required, in those activities and services at each stage of a claim that are focused on supporting a worker’s recovery and return to work. The goal is to act in good faith to maximize recovery and achieve return to work, or independence for workers who are medically unable to return to work. There may be an impact to the worker’s benefits if they are not cooperating. |