Who Qualifies For Retraining Benefits?

Many injured workers end up making a full recovery after their on-the job accident and eventually return to work in a full capacity, but unfortunately this is not the case for every injured worker. Some workers suffer such significant injuries that they can no longer return to the same position once they’ve reached maximum medical recovery. In these instances, the injured worker may be eligible for retaining benefits. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at who is eligible for retraining benefits in Minnesota after a work injury.

Getting Retraining Benefits After A Work Injury

Under Minnesota law, select individuals may qualify for retraining benefits following a work injury that renders them incapable of returning to their old position. In general, an injured worker would be eligible for retraining benefits provided by the Minnesota workers’ compensation system if:

The employee suffered a work-related injury.

The employee will not or does not experience enough physical or cognitive improvement in order to return to their position in a standard capacity.

There is reason to believe that retraining or vocational rehabilitation can help the employee return to gainful employment.

If you believe that you fit the criteria for retraining or vocational rehabilitation, consult with your workers’ compensation lawyer. They will help move the process forward and connect you with a qualified rehabilitation consultant (QRC). Your QRC will conduct a thorough review of your medical evaluation, your current work requirements and a variety of other relevant factors to determine if you meet the criteria for these benefits. Your lawyer can also help to provide any evidence to the QRC to help prove your case.

If approved, your QRC will work with you to develop a detailed plan for retraining or vocational rehabilitation. This may include things like:

Retraining
Counseling
Job Placement
Job Modification
Skills Training
Continued Education
Vocational Evaluations

Similar to any return to work plan, you will need to follow the recommendations of your QRC and your medical professional. If you disagree with any of the recommendations, it’s imperative that you voice these concerns to your lawyer or your QRC. Failing to follow through on recommendations can lead to the termination of these benefits, so don’t just stop pursuing aspects of your plan because you disagree with them. Both your lawyer and your QRC will assist you as best they can, so don’t jeopardize your benefits without first having a conversation with the relevant parties.

At the end of the day, the workers’ compensation system is designed to help injured workers return to gainful employment as quickly as possible, and retraining or vocational rehabilitation can be essential in helping an employee get back on their feet after an injury. We’ll do everything in our power to help you get these benefits if you believe you qualify. If you have questions or concerns about anything related to your case or your benefits, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

For more information about retraining or vocational rehabilitation benefits in Minnesota, or for assistance with another aspect of your injury claim, reach out to Dean and the team at Margolis Law Firm today at (952) 230-2700.