MANAGEMENT OF WORK DISABILITY - RESOURCES FOR VOCATIONAL-REHABILITATION

Objective. To review the state-federal vocational rehabilitation (SF-V R) system and its utilization by persons with rheumatic conditions. Me thods. SF-VR system instruction manuals, and literature on rheumatolog y rehabilitation, work disability, and rehabilitation counseling were reviewed. National and Massachusetts state SF-VR system data on person s with ''arthritis and rheumatism'' were analyzed. Results. The SF-VR system is used by a small proportion of persons with rheumatic disease s. Fifty-two percent of clients with arthritis are employed after rece iving services. Conclusion. Although evidence indicates that VR servic es for persons with rheumatic conditions improves their chances for re employment, the SF-VR system is underutilized.