Disability Evaluation
Disability
Evaluations are specific to the individual and the
disabling condition. Factors are evaluated based upon
accident, injury, or progressive medical/psychological
condition(s). Expertise is needed when a physical,
mental, or emotional condition arises to interrupt an
individual's ability to engage in work, participate in
school/training, or in major life activities.
A Vocational Expert provides an evaluation of the
individual and their ability to work. A Vocational
Evaluation is combined with an evaluation of the
disability.
A Disability Evaluation
incorporates:
- Education and
training, combined with work skills and abilities.
- Earning and
benefits capacity.
- Thorough analysis
of medical and psychological records to determine
resultant limitations, restrictions or barriers to
work.
- Assesses other
pre- or post- injury/accident conditions that impact
the worker
Considers psychological, social, economic impact
and/or relevant adjustment to disability issues.
- Reviews
mitigation efforts of the individual.
- May determine
vocational case management services needed to
restore the individual back to the work force, or
may determine other needed professional services.
- Makes a
recommendation as to earning capacity, ability or
inability to resume work, or recommendation as to
services needed, including accommodation,
counseling, and/or training required.
This type of
evaluation is typically performed for litigation or
claim adjudication purposes: personal injury
(plaintiff/defense), second injury pension (worker
compensation), or long-term disability (insurance
company). In marriage dissolution cases, where a
disabling condition is present, a Disability Evaluation
is more relevant than a Vocational Evaluation.
