For many, successful vocational rehabilitation is the ultimate measure
of the efficacy of rehabilitation efforts for survivors of acquired b
rain injury (ABI). Often, the physician's role is perceived as minimal
to none in the context of ongoing work reentry efforts. This article
will explore the physician's role in the postacute phase of care and i
n particular as germane to optimizing vocational reentry efforts. Trad
itional viewpoints regarding the role of the physician in long-term ca
re of persons with ABI relative to the medical model of care will be r
eviewed. Methods by which the neurorehabilitation physician may optimi
ze work reentry will be examined including exploring medical readiness
for work, as well as addressing impairments that may produce function
al disability and/or handicap in the workplace environment.