Vocational Expert

Vocational Evaluation

Since 1986, RSA master’s level vocational consultants have performed comprehensive vocational assessment of individuals with disabilities (and without) disabilities to answer questions regarding vocational handicap, employability, transferable skills, earning capacity, placeability, potential to benefit from retraining, and career development options. Evaluations have been requested by a variety of referral sources including insurers, state and federal agencies, attorneys, rehabilitation professionals, and individuals. Vocationally relevant information germane to the evaluation process can include consideration of multiple factors including health status, Physical Functional, Capacities and Limitations, Aptitudes, Psycho-social factors, Work Temperament, Interests, Functional Academic Skills, Transferable Skills, Work Goals, Job Seeking Skills, and Labor Market information.

Transferable Skills Analysis

TSA is a commonly accepted approach to identifying job skills that can be transferred from prior employment to new employment, while taking into account limitations that may be present from a disabling condition. This analysis synthesizes data from an individual’s employment history, educational background, vocational assessment data, medical reports, and other specialists’ reports.

Vocational Testing

Vocational testing can be useful in the development of an individual’s vocational profile. Measures of intelligence, educational achievement, aptitude, personality, and interests are sometimes helpful in determining employability, earning capacity, and in the development of vocational/educational plans

Employability Assessment

An Employability Assessment is an analysis of an individual's ability to perform particular occupations within a specific labor market.


Earning Capacity Assessment

An earning capacity assessment is based upon a vocational evaluation of an individual’s employability, competitiveness, and labor market conditions. It is multi-factorial typically involving a diagnostic vocational interview, review of relevant case records, vocational evaluation data, occupational and labor market data, and in some cases consultative input from healthcare professionals Based upon the current and anticipated future status of the individual, pre-injury and post-injury earnings capacities are analyzed for quantification of possible diminution of earning capacity.

Vocational Plan Development

In non-catastrophic cases, a rehabilitation plan can be formulated where appropriate to guide return to work efforts. The plan may include recommendations for vocational counseling and testing, vocational training, rehabilitation therapies, assistive technology, and other items and services. Documentation of specific training options are outlined and can include: program cost, length of training, and recommendations regarding training needed to improve employability and earning capacity.

Labor Market Surveys /Research

An accumulation of facts regarding current jobs appropriate for a specific individual within a designated geographical area. The purpose of a labor market survey is to assess viability of employment goals within specific geographic areas, and to define availability of appropriate jobs within specific distances.

Job Development and Placement

Job placement services to assist an individual with a disability to return to the labor market. These services can include: job seeking skills training, job analysis, job modifications, vocational counseling and labor market surveys, placement, and placement follow-up activities.

All RSA services are provided within an objective and ethical framework for individuals, insurers, and plaintiff and defense counsel.