Getting a Wheelchair Van Through Vocational Rehabilitation

People with disabilities face significant barriers to employment, and lower employment rates in comparrison to people without disabilities. Vocational rehabilitation (VR) aims to change that by providing resources so people with disabilities can work. This can include everything from skill development and job-seeking assistance to assistive technology and specialized equipment that enables a person to perform job duties effectively—or even a wheelchair accessible vehicle, which for many helps remove the transportation barrier of getting to and from work.

What Is the Primary Goal of Vocational Rehabilitation?

The primary goal of vocational rehabilitation services is to help individuals with disabilities achieve independence through a fulfilling career. VR removes barriers to employment by providing resources to help people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, maintain and advance in employment.

What Qualifies You for Vocational Rehabilitation?

To qualify for vocational rehabilitation, a person must have a disability that creates a significant barrier to obtaining part-time or full-time employment. Each state has specific criteria to qualify, so It’s recommended to contact your local VR office to determine eligibility.

While vocational rehabilitation assists people with various disabilities, the Veteran Readiness and Employment program, offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), provides vocational rehabilitation services specifically for Veterans with service-connected disabilities.

What Services Does Vocational Rehabilitation Provide?

The services each person receives will vary. Generally, vocational rehab can provide career counseling, interview skills training, and job search assistance. Beyond traditional career support, VR also offers lesser-known services in some states like coverage of durable medical equipment, assistive technology, or modifications for wheelchair vans. All of these services aim to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.

Vocational Rehabilitation Process

The process to apply for and receive services from vocational rehabilitation is largely the same across the U.S., with a few exceptions depending on the state. We’ll use Indiana as an example, since that’s where BraunAbility is located:

1. Submit a referral or application: Anyone can refer a person to VR in Indiana, and a person can even refer themselves. Teachers, family members, and Medicaid waiver case managers are common referral sources.
2. Assessment: After applying for VR services, a person will attend an in-person assessment with a VR counselor. This assessment typically involves collecting data about the individual’s medical history, education, work history, and career interests. The goal is to create an individualized plan for employment.
3. Services: To help an individual obtain employment, vocational rehabilitation will offer specialized services based on the individualized plan for employment.
4. Case closure: Once a person obtains employment and has worked for 90 days, the individual will discuss with the counselor whether things are going well or if more assistance is required. If things are going well, the VR counselor will close the case.

VR programs receive funding from both federal and state sources. Some services are provided for free, but depending on income and needs, some individuals might have to pay for other services.

Vocational Rehabilitation and Accessible Transportation

Getting a wheelchair van through vocational rehabilitation can be life-changing for individuals with disabilities facing transportation and employment barriers. VR helps identify personalized solutions to ensure reliable transportation to and from work. Whether you’re new to the workforce or returning after an injury, VR offers resources to secure safe and functional vehicle modifications tailored to your needs.

The vehicle modification process for vocational rehabilitation is similar across many states, with a few exceptions. It’s important to check with your state’s vocational rehabilitation program to understand any specific requirements or differences in your area. Again, we’ll use Indiana as an example:

1. VR Application and Eligibility: Start by opening a VR case by applying for vocational rehabilitation services. If you’re eligible, you’ll work with a counselor to develop an individualized plan for employment.
2. Assess Transportation and Vehicle Needs: In Indiana, VR counselors and their clients must first consider other transportation options, such as public transportation or rideshare services, before vehicle modifications can be made. If these alternatives do not meet individual needs, a vehicle modification evaluation is conducted. A certified driver rehabilitation specialist can then recommend appropriate modifications and provide training on how to use them.
3. Confirm Vehicle Suitability: Before any modifications can be made, VR may require a pre-modification inspection to ensure the client’s current or intended vehicle is structurally sound, safe for modifications, within acceptable mileage and age limits, and properly titled. Additionally, VR often requires vehicles and their modifications to be NMEDA-QAP certified.
4. Gather Bids and Authorize Modifications: A bid is a formal proposal from a vendor or service provider outlining the cost and details of vehicle modifications. Bids are gathered from various vendors to determine the best option for vehicle modifications. These bids include information on the price, scope of work and timeline for completing the modifications. Once the bids are reviewed and authorized, the chosen vendor can proceed with the modifications to ensure the vehicle meets the client’s needs.
5. Final inspection and case closure: After the vehicle is modified, a vendor or another certified party will inspect it to ensure safety and functionality. Once the inspection is complete, the individual can start using the vehicle. If the individual maintains employment for 90 days, the vocational rehabilitation case can be closed.

Vocational Rehabilitation and Accessible Vehicle Modifications

Vocational rehabilitation typically covers the cost of vehicle modifications rather than the base vehicle itself. For example, if a BraunAbility Chrysler Pacifica is identified as the best vehicle for your needs, VR may cover modifications such as ramps, wheelchair securement systems or transfer seats, but typically does not cover the unconverted Chrysler Pacifica. Additionally, VR may cover driver evaluations and training. This can make the purchase of an accessible vehicle more affordable, but some costs may need to be covered by the person receiving VR services.

Wheelchair accessible vehicles allow people with disabilities and caregivers greater independence and freedom for both drivers and passengers. Contact your local BraunAbility dealer to learn more about BraunAbility vehicles and mobility products.