Workers Compensation

Workers Compensation

A vocational expert is typically retained in workers compensation matters to evaluate the employability and placeability of the injured worker. Employability relates to the individual’s residual functional capacity, work history, job-related skills and tested abilities. Placeability involves an analysis of the labor market and includes considerations such as labor market trends, job availability and employer attitudes toward disability.

Employability and placeability a vocational rehabilitation concepts; however, the deal directly with the question of unemployability under the state’s Osterlund criteria. Under certain circumstances, an individual with partial disability or reduced work capacity may still be unable to secure employment due to the impact of other complicating factors such as low educational attainment, lack of English proficiency, long periods of unemployment or difficult accommodation needs.

Dr. Joy testified as a vocational expert before a number of commissioners within the State of Connecticut.