2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services Definition

Purpose

Individuals with disabilities who receive vocational rehabilitation services achieve increased community integration, social inclusion, and self-determination through the realization of their vocational goals.

Definition

Vocational Rehabilitation services provide individualized coordination of counseling, career planning, training, support services, and job placement appropriate to the employment and life goals of persons with disabilities.

Note: The Vocational Rehabilitation (PA-VOC) Standards cover a range of programs that support individuals with disabilities in achieving their vocational goals. These services can include skill development training, vocational evaluation, work adjustment, job development and placement, supported employment, and work services.


Note: Supported Employment programs will complete PA-VOC 1, PA-VOC 2, PA-VOC 3, PA-VOC 4, PA-VOC 8, PA-VOC 9, and PA-VOC 11.  


Note:Please see the PA-VOC Reference List for the research that informed the development of these standards.


Note:For information about changes made in the 2020 Edition, please see the VOC  Crosswalk.

2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 1: Person-Centered Logic Model

The agency implements a program logic model that describes how resources and program activities will support the achievement of positive outcomes.  

Note: Please see the Logic Model Template for additional guidance on this standard.  

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • See program description completed during intake
  • Program logic model that includes a list of outcomes being measured
No On-Site Evidence
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
 

PA-VOC 1.01

A program logic model, or equivalent framework, identifies: 

  1. needs the program will address; 
  2. available human, financial, organizational, and community resources (i.e. inputs); 
  3. program activities intended to bring about desired results;  
  4. program outputs (i.e. the size and scope of services delivered);  
  5. desired outcomes (i.e. the changes you expect to see in persons served); and 
  6. expected long-term impact on the agency, community, and/or system. 

Examples: Please see the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Logic Model Development Guide and COA Accreditation’s PQI Tool Kit for more information on developing and using program logic models. 
 
Examples: Information that may be used to inform the development of the program logic model includes, but is not limited to:  
  1. needs assessments and periodic reassessments; and 
  2. the best available evidence of service effectiveness. 
 

PA-VOC 1.02

The logic model identifies at least two outcomes appropriate to the program or service population.  
Interpretation: Outcomes data should be disaggregated to identify patterns of disparity or inequity that can be masked by aggregate data reporting. See PA-PQI 5.02 for more information on disaggregating data to track and monitor identified outcomes.  
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 2: Personnel

Program personnel have the competency and support needed to provide services and meet the needs of persons served. 
Interpretation: Competency can be demonstrated through education, training, or experience. Support can be provided through supervision or other learning activities to improve understanding or skill development in specific areas.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • List of program personnel that includes:
    • Title
    • Name
    • Employee, volunteer, or independent contractor
    • Degree or other qualifications
    • Time in current position
  • See organizational chart submitted during application
  • Procedures or other documentation relevant to continuity of care and case assignment
  • Sample job descriptions from across relevant job categories
  • Caseload size requirements set by policy, regulation, or contract, when applicable
  • Documentation of current caseload size per worker
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
  • Review personnel files
 

PA-VOC 2.01

Supervisors are qualified by:
  1. an advanced degree in social work or a comparable human service field;
  2. an advanced degree from a program in vocational rehabilitation or vocational counseling;
  3. a bachelor’s degree in a human service field and two years experience in the vocational rehabilitation field; and/or
  4. national or state certification, licensing, or registration in the vocational rehabilitation field.
 

PA-VOC 2.02

A supervisor is available to provide case consultation at all times services are provided.
 

PA-VOC 2.03

The agency minimizes the number of workers assigned to persons served over the course of their contact with the agency by:
  1. assigning a worker at intake or early in the contact; and
  2. avoiding the arbitrary or indiscriminate reassignment of direct service personnel.
 

PA-VOC 2.04

Employee workloads support the achievement of client outcomes and are regularly reviewed. 

Examples: Factors that may be considered when determining employee workloads include, but are not limited to:
  1. the qualifications, competencies, and experience of the worker, including the level of supervision needed;
  2. the work and time required to accomplish assigned tasks and job responsibilities; and
  3. service volume, accounting for assessed level of needs of persons served.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 3: Intake and Assessment

The agency's intake and assessment practices ensure that persons served receive prompt and responsive access to appropriate services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Screening and intake procedures
  • Assessment procedures
  • Copy of assessment tool(s)
  • Community resource and referral list
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 3.01

Persons served are screened and informed about:
  1. how well their request matches the agency's services; and
  2. what services will be available and when.
NA Another provider is responsible for screening applicants, as defined in a contract.
 

PA-VOC 3.02

Prompt, responsive, intake practices:
  1. gather information necessary to identify critical service needs and/or determine when a more intensive service is necessary.
  2. support timely initiation of services; and
  3. provide placement on a waiting list, or referral to appropriate resources, when individuals cannot be served or cannot be served promptly.
 

PA-VOC 3.03

Persons served participate in an individualized, culturally, and linguistically responsive vocational assessment that is:
  1. completed within established timeframes;
  2. updated as needed based on the needs of persons served; and
  3. focused on information pertinent for meeting service requests and objectives.
Interpretation: All agencies are expected to work with the individual to complete a vocational assessment that informs the vocational plan, regardless of the vocational rehabilitation services they provide.
 

PA-VOC 3.04

The vocational assessment should identify the individual’s disability and include:
  1. vocational interests, preferences, and goals;
  2. vocational history, experience, and training;
  3. skills and aptitudes;
  4. the need for accommodations or assistive technology;
  5. level of functioning and relevant health, social, and behavioral factors;
  6. the need for support services;
  7. available community resources; and
  8. individual strengths and resources.

Interpretation: The Assessment Matrix - Private, Public, Canadian, Network determines which level of assessment is required for COA’s Service Sections. The assessment elements of the Matrix can be tailored according to the needs of specific individuals or service design.

Examples: Workplace accommodations can include, but are not limited to: accessible parking, public transportation stops close to the program site, elevators, reduced work hours or more frequent breaks, specially
designed work stations, enlarged print, special lighting, or text-based telecommunications equipment.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 4: Vocational Planning and Monitoring

Each person participates in the development and ongoing review of a vocational plan that is the basis for the delivery of appropriate services and support.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Vocational planning and monitoring procedures
No On-Site Evidence
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 4.01

An assessment-based vocational plan is developed in a timely manner with the full participation of persons served, and their family or natural supports when appropriate, and includes:
  1. agreed upon vocational goals, desired outcomes, and timeframes for achieving them;
  2. barriers to employment and methods for minimizing their impact;
  3. services and support to be provided, and by whom;
  4. possibilities for maintaining and strengthening family relationships and other informal social networks; and
  5. the individual’s signature.
 

PA-VOC 4.02

The agency works in active partnership with persons served, and his or her family or natural supports as appropriate, to:
  1. assume a service coordination role, as appropriate, when the need has been identified and no other agency has assumed that responsibility;
  2. ensure that they receive appropriate advocacy support;
  3. assist with access to the full array of services to which they are eligible; and
  4. mediate barriers to services within the service delivery system.

Examples: Some methods that agencies can use to facilitate regular contact among partnering service providers include, but are not limited to: virtual networking; email/phone; co-location; satellite locations or roving vans; and referral or formal contracting.
 

PA-VOC 4.03

The agency documents in the case record that it has advised the individual about how paid employment may affect eligibility for disability and other benefits and documents efforts made to ensure the individual understands explanations.
 

PA-VOC 4.04

The worker and a supervisor, or a clinical, service, or peer team, review the case quarterly, or more frequently depending on the needs of persons served, to assess:
  1. vocational plan implementation;
  2. progress toward achieving agreed upon goals and desired outcomes; and
  3. the continuing appropriateness of the agreed upon vocational goals.
Interpretation: When experienced workers are conducting reviews of their own cases, the worker’s supervisor must review a sample of the worker’s evaluations as per the requirements of the standard.
 

PA-VOC 4.05

The worker and individual, and his or her family or natural supports when appropriate:
  1. review progress toward achievement of agreed upon vocational goals; and
  2. sign revisions to vocational goals and plans.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 5: Skill-Development Training

The agency helps persons served develop the skills needed to fulfill their employment goals by designing training programs with input from community employers.
NA The agency does not provide skill-development training services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Course descriptions for each training course
  • Skill-development training curriculum
  • Sample of training course materials
  • Training schedule for the previous 12 months
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 5.01

Skill-development training is tailored to meet the individual’s employment objectives, and courses are modified, as necessary, in response to employment trends and community labor market conditions.
 

PA-VOC 5.02

Skill-development training addresses:
  1. job search skills;
  2. job expectations;
  3. job maintenance skills;
  4. time management;
  5. money management;
  6. work-related interpersonal skills; and
  7. other work practices, such as payroll deductions, union dues, and insurance.
 

PA-VOC 5.03

Training schedules are flexible including evening hours and, when possible, distance learning opportunities, and individually paced instruction.

Example: Individually paced instruction allows students to skip over material they are familiar with or to move slowly through material that is more difficult. It is often more effective to provide this type of instruction in a classroom-style setting where a teacher or trainer is available if the student has questions. 
 

PA-VOC 5.04

Each skill-development training course:
  1. is reviewed every two years with input from local businesses; and
  2. provides a written course description including the curriculum, location, and meeting time of training sessions.
 

PA-VOC 5.05

Persons served are offered skill-development training courses in integrated settings, either directly or by referral, as appropriate to their individualized employment objectives.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 6: Vocational Evaluation Services

The agency provides persons served with a written vocational evaluation that highlights the individual’s skills, aptitudes, preferences, abilities, and special needs.
NA The agency does not provide vocational evaluation services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Procedures used to evaluate skills, aptitudes, preferences, abilities, and special needs
  • Copy of evaluation tool(s)
No On-Site Evidence
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 6.01

The agency builds on the vocational assessment, combining it with other relevant information including medical, psychological, social, cultural, educational, and financial data, to develop a real or simulated work experience that:
  1. identifies strengths and areas in need of improvement;
  2. evaluates learning styles; and
  3. provides an opportunity for the individual to explore vocational options.
 

PA-VOC 6.02

The agency evaluates work-related behaviors by observing the service recipient's ability to work as a member of a team and his or her work habits, such as dependability, punctuality, attention to detail, initiative, and perseverance.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 7: Work Adjustment Services

The agency provides supervised employment opportunities to assist the individual in progressing towards the attainment of basic work skills, attitudes, and habits.
NA The agency does not provide work adjustment services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Work adjustment planning procedures
No On-Site Evidence
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 7.01

The individual participates in the development of an individualized, written work adjustment plan that specifies:
  1. measurable objectives and specific outcomes;
  2. the work environment in which the individual is likely to succeed; and
  3. personnel responsible for helping the individual to achieve the goals of the plan.
 

PA-VOC 7.02

Work adjustment services include supervised employment experiences that provide opportunities to learn:
  1. skills that require manual dexterity;
  2. psychomotor skills;
  3. skills necessary to find and keep a job; and
  4. interpersonal and communication skills.

Examples: Interpersonal and communication skills can include how to build and maintain positive professional relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and customers and how to resolve interpersonal conflicts in the workplace. 
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 8: Job Development Placement Services

The agency helps the individual find and retain employment appropriate to their vocational objectives and provides assistance to employers when individuals require special accommodations.
NA The agency does not provide job development and placement services.

Currently viewing: JOB DEVELOPMENT PLACEMENT SERVICES

Viewing: PA-VOC 8 - Job Development Placement Services
Previous: PA-VOC 7 - Work Adjustment Services Next: PA-VOC 9 - Supported Employment Services

VIEW THE STANDARDS

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Copy of work-readiness assessment tools or criteria
  • Procedures for providing post-employment follow-up
  • Examples of local job market information made available to persons served
  • Informational materials or other information provided to employers
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
    4. Employers
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 8.01

Job development and placement services involve local employers who can demonstrate opportunities for career advancement.
 

PA-VOC 8.02

The agency provides the individual with:
  1. up-to-date information about the local job market, consistent with his or her interests and abilities;
  2. an assessment of work readiness;
  3. assistance in developing a job search strategy; and
  4. interview and negotiation techniques.
 

PA-VOC 8.03

The agency actively works with persons served to:
  1. increase their occupational exposure;
  2. bolster their confidence in the workplace environment;
  3. form reasonable expectations of parents and family members, or natural supports; and
  4. establish appropriate expectations of employment professionals.
 

PA-VOC 8.04

The agency provides post-employment follow-up services to improve job retention by:
  1. regularly assessing the appropriateness of the placement;
  2. providing ongoing evaluation of employee satisfaction;
  3. offering long-term support services, as necessary, to the service recipient; and
  4. exploring opportunities for career development and advancement.
 

PA-VOC 8.05

The agency documents in the case record:
  1. information about the individual's job;
  2. initial follow-up within three months of job placement; and
  3. post-employment contacts.

Examples: Details about the placement can include, but is not limited to, the supervisor’s name, date of hire, or salary.
 

PA-VOC 8.06

The agency establishes and maintains relationships with employers, and services to employers include:
  1. education about disabilities, job accommodations, and the possibilities for, and benefits of, employing individuals with disabilities ;
  2. assistance with developing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities;
  3. identification of and elimination of physical and attitudinal employment barriers; and
  4. on-site job analysis.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 9: Supported Employment Services

The agency facilitates the integration of persons with severe disabilities into the competitive labor market through on-site training, real-world work environments, and ongoing support services.
NA The agency does not provide supported employment services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
No Self-Study Evidence
  • Examples of job descriptions
  • Skills training curricula
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
    4. Employers
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 9.01

The agency and the individual negotiate a customized employment arrangement with the employer that:
  1. is in the competitive labor market;
  2. has a competitive wage; and
  3. is tailored to the individual’s special needs. 

Examples: Customized employment arrangements can include, but are not limited to, job carving, job sharing, self-employment, and developing a new job description to address unmet business needs.
 

PA-VOC 9.02

Personnel provide ongoing support and direct supervision to the individual, both on and off the job site, as indicated in the vocational plan.
 

PA-VOC 9.03

The agency supports individuals to function as full members of the work community by offering soft-skills and interpersonal skills training.

Examples: Training topics can include, but are not limited to, how to use public transportation, engaging with coworkers, and time management.
 

PA-VOC 9.04

Job placement and ongoing support promote opportunities for career changes, job expansion, and promotion, as indicated in the vocational plan.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 10: Work Services

The agency provides a structured work environment, training program, and financial compensation, to maintain the individual’s level of functioning or to facilitate movement toward community employment.
NA The agency does not provide work services.

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Procedures for evaluating performance and progress towards competitive employment
  • Copy of informational handbook provided to persons served
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 10.01

Work assignments take into account any special needs, including the need for accommodation.
 

PA-VOC 10.02

The agency prepares and distributes a handbook to persons served that meets the written and oral communication needs of individuals and addresses:
  1. work conditions, compensation practices, and fringe benefits;
  2. workplace rules and regulations;
  3. grievance and appeal procedures; and
  4. the process persons served follow to achieve community employment.
 

PA-VOC 10.03

The agency develops a system for evaluating the employee’s work performance and progress toward competitive employment.
2023 Edition

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (PA-VOC) 11: Case Closing and Aftercare

The agency works with persons served and family members or natural supports, when appropriate, to plan for case closing and, when possible, to develop aftercare plans. 

1
Full Implementation, Outstanding Performance
A rating of (1) indicates that the agency's practices fully meet the standard and reflect a high level of capacity.  
  • All elements or requirements outlined in the standard are evident in practice, with rare or no exceptions: exceptions do not impact service quality or agency performance. 
2
Substantial Implementation, Good Performance
A rating of (2) indicates that an agency's infrastructure and practices are basically sound but there is room for improvement.
  • The majority of the standards requirements have been met and the basic framework required by the standard has been implemented. 
  • Minor inconsistencies and not yet fully developed practices are noted; however, these do not significantly impact service quality or agency performance.
3

Partial Implementation, Concerning Performance
A rating of (3) indicates that the agency's observed infrastructure and/or practices require significant improvement.  

  • The agency has not implemented the basic framework of the standard but instead has in place only part of this framework.  
  • Omissions or exceptions to the practices outlined in the standard occur regularly, or practices are implemented in a cursory or haphazard manner.  
  • Service quality or agency functioning may be compromised.  
  • Capacity is at a basic level.
4
Unsatisfactory Implementation or Performance
A rating of (4) indicates that implementation of the standard is minimal or there is no evidence of implementation at all.  
  • The agency’s observed service delivery infrastructure and practices are weak or non-existent; or show signs of neglect, stagnation, or deterioration.
Self-Study Evidence On-Site Evidence On-Site Activities
  • Case closing procedures
  • Aftercare planning and follow-up procedures
  • Relevant portions of contract with public authority, as applicable
  • Interviews may include:
    1. Program director
    2. Relevant personnel
    3. Persons served
  • Review case records
 

PA-VOC 11.01

Planning for case closing:
  1. is a clearly defined process that includes assignment of staff responsibility;
  2. begins at intake; and
  3. involves the worker, persons served, and others, as appropriate to the needs and wishes of the individual.
 

PA-VOC 11.02

Upon case closing, the agency notifies any collaborating service providers, as appropriate.
 

PA-VOC 11.03

If an individual has to leave the program unexpectedly, the agency makes every effort to identify other service options and link the person with appropriate services.
Interpretation: The agency must determine on a case-by-case basis its responsibility to continue providing services to individuals whose third-party benefits are denied or have ended and who are in critical situations.
 

PA-VOC 11.04

When appropriate, the agency works with persons served and their family or natural supports to:
  1. develop an aftercare plan, sufficiently in advance of case closing, that identifies short- and long-term needs and goals and facilitates the initiation or continuation of needed supports and services; or
  2. conduct a formal case closing evaluation, including an assessment of unmet need, when the agency has an interagency agreement that does not include aftercare planning or follow-up.
 

PA-VOC 11.05

The agency follows up on the aftercare plan, as appropriate, when possible, and with the permission of persons served.
 
NA The agency has an interagency agreement that does not include aftercare planning or follow-up.

Examples: Reasons why follow-up may not be appropriate, include, but are not limited to, cases where there may be a risk to the individual.
Copyright © 2024 Council on Accreditation