Project Overview
OVRS and the Workers' Compensation Division's Preferred Worker Program (PWP) staff have maintained a formal partnership on this project since 2005. The goal of the project is to provide VR services to PWP cardholders who would otherwise receive no vocational assistance to return to work. Initially started in the Portland metro area, the project has been carefully expanded to increase the availability of OVRS services across the state; the overall project goal is to expand services statewide.
Referrals are received on a regular basis and those individuals are contacted with an invitation to participate in the project. Consumers are subject to standard OVRS eligibility requirements, policies and procedures. The Preferred Worker Program services are used as comparable benefits to offset re-employment costs and worksite modifications required due to the on-the-job injury. OVRS staff work closely with PWP Return-to-Work specialists to assist participants to return to employment as soon as possible.
Forms
- WCD Preferred Worker Program Forms Library
- OVRS-WCD Placement Assistance Agreement Form
This form MUST be completed and signed by both the VRC and the PWP consumer when employment begins. When file is closed successfully, send signed form to OVRS Administration (Sheila Hoover) for submission to PWP.
Resources
- Who's Who/PWP Phone and email list (http://www.cbs.state.or.us/wcd/rdrs/rau/whos_who_saw_rtw.html)
- WCD Preferred Worker Information website (http://www.cbs.state.or.us/wcd/rdrs/rau/pwp/pwp_index.html)
- WCD PWP Brochures (http://www.cbs.state.or.us/wcd/rdrs/rau/saw_rtw_brochures.html)
- PWP Overview Training (PPT)
For more information
- Contact Sheila Hoover in OVRS Admininstration