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View Full Version : VA Voc Rehab testing suggestions


skippy13
02-16-2011, 06:41 PM
I would like to make a suggestion to the VA that all of their Voc Rehab/ILP examiners make access to adaptive tools (computer versions) for the physically handicapped but I don't know who to send it to.

I went in to the Voc Rehab office for testing that was to last about three hours that consisted of filling in the multiple choice bubbles on the test form with a pencil. I tried my best to do the test as fast as I could as you are supposed to do, but was hampered by the fact that I cannot grip a pencil for more than a few seconds before I start getting spasms. I do not own any adaptive tools for this purpose so I tried to tough it out.

My spasms get worse the more I try to calm them, and I spent most of my test time erasing the skid marks skittering across the page from the worsening spasms. I got very agitated as the test went on and on, but it is necessary to complete these written tests before you can get services. I do not qualify for Voc Rehab, but do qualify for ILP.

So, I want to send a letter to someone who can assure that there is equal access in the VA program to people like me who cannot fill out regular paperwork or do written tests requiring a standard writing instrument. You would think that there is already a system in place for an organisation that deals with disabled vets of varying degree, wouldn't you?

Who would I address my concerns to? Thanks.

SCI-Nurse
02-16-2011, 08:29 PM
Go through the PVA. You will be much more action on that than by going through the VA chain of command.

We stopped using the VA VR counselors completely about a year ago. Instead, one of the PVA employed VR counselors visits our center several times monthly and works with both our inpatient and outpatient SCI veterans. She often makes home visits, workplace and employer visits, and knows SCI in and out, unlike the ones we had thorugh the VA who were mostly experienced in working with the mentally ill veterans. She has already placed a number of our veterans in jobs, and helped several others return to school. She knows the VA benefits as well as the state and local programs, and we have been extremely happy.

Not all areas of the country have an assigned PVA VR person yet, but they are expanding their offices on a regular basis. Try contacting the person at PVA headquarters responsible for this program.

(KLD)