Most VR forms are filed in CompHub. File the VR-1, VR-02 (Closure Report), VR-03 and VR-33 (Insurer's Report of Rehab Progress) under the “Voc Rehab” tab in CompHub. Since January 16, 2024, the VR-02 and VR-33 are no longer accepted through the old web forms.
Forms not in CompHub — complete the PDF and email it to hbrooke@wcc.state.md.us:
- VR-06 — Agreement on the Propriety of Services and Selection of Practitioner (PDF)
- VR-05 — Disputed Provider/Practitioner Selection (PDF)
Expedited disputes (VR-04). CompHub subscribers with a dispute about vocational rehabilitation services only can file the VR-04 Dispute form online (there is no paper version).
- The Duty Commissioner calls the parties the next business day after the form is submitted. Include mobile numbers and be available that day.
- If the dispute isn't resolved by phone, a hearing is scheduled within 5 business days.
Questions and answers. The VR FAQ sheet (PDF) summarizes the procedures and forms.
What is vocational rehabilitation?
A workers' compensation benefit that helps a disabled employee who can't return to their former job re-enter the workforce. Services may include testing, job placement, counseling, on-the-job training and retraining.
Am I eligible?
Your injury must keep you from returning to your former occupation. Talk with your attorney or the insurer's claim representative. Services must be approved by the insurer or the Commission; if the insurer refuses, you or your attorney may request a hearing before a Commissioner.
Who provides the services?
Either the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) or a private counselor. Private practitioners must be registered with the Commission, and you can ask to see their registration. DORS is exempt from registration but serves eligible Maryland residents; tell your DORS counselor about your workers' compensation claim.
Do I get paid during rehabilitation?
Yes. While you actively cooperate, you receive Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits at your Temporary Total Disability rate.
Typical vocational rehabilitation timeline
- Interview. The counselor learns your background, physical limits, work experience and interests.
- Plan and goals. The counselor writes a customized plan.
- Agreement. All parties agree, or a Commissioner decides whether the plan is appropriate.
- Action. You pursue job leads or training with the counselor's help.
- Counselors first explore a return to your employer with modified duties, then other jobs using transferable skills, and only then a training plan.
- Retraining is considered only if no suitable local jobs exist. Approved retraining lasts up to two years.
- The goal is a salary close to your pre-injury wages, though that is not always possible.
- A current medical report stating you can't return to your former duties is required.
- You can suggest a school or career interest, but a professional counselor develops the final plan.
Mail
Workers' Compensation Commission
Attn: MCRSP Support Services Section
10 East Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21202-1641
Phone and fax
(410) 864-5320
Fax: (410) 864-5251
Organizations and Rehabilitation Service Practitioners
Under Labor and Employment Article § 9-671 (external site) and § 9-6A-18 (external site), practitioners must register and providers must enroll before serving a Maryland injured worker.
- Provider
- An enrolled organization (including DORS) that provides services through a registered practitioner.
- Practitioner types
- Nurse case manager, rehabilitation counselor, vocational evaluator, physical therapist, occupational therapist.
- Registration
- Required to serve more than 3 injured workers per year. Submit Form VR08 and the $150 fee to Support Services. Valid for three years.
- Renewal
- 12 continuing education credits since your last registration or renewal: 6 from WCC-given or approved training and 6 from Commission-approved outside courses.
- Waiver
- Serving 3 or fewer workers per year? Apply online for a free waiver, valid two years or until you exceed 3 workers. No CEUs required, but Commission rules still apply.
- Provider enrollment
- Organizations file the Vocational Rehabilitation Provider Enrollment Application in CompHub (COMAR 14.09.07.08). Valid two years; renewal notices go out 30 days before expiration, and renewals are filed in CompHub.
Rehabilitation Services Practitioner Training
As of March 1, 2024, the Commission no longer offers MCRSP training.
- Earn up to six of the twelve required CEUs over three years at the MWCEA Annual Conference (2 credit hours per year).
- Other CEUs can come from Commission-approved seminars or workshops. Get pre-approval before the course.
Questions: wccsupportserv@wcc.state.md.us