A Vocational Expert (VE) or Vocational Consultant in a long-term disability claim is a professional who evaluates an individual’s work-related abilities and limitations in the context of their disabling medical condition. The VE provides an opinion as to whether the individual can return to their own occupation or any other occupation, and if so, what type of job is suitable given their medical condition.
During the long-term disability claim process, the insurance company may request a vocational evaluation by a VE to determine whether the claimant is eligible for benefits under the policy. The VE will typically review the individual’s medical records, work history, and other relevant information to determine the extent of the individual’s disability and their ability to perform work-related activities.
The VE will then provide an opinion on whether the individual can perform their own occupation or any other occupation based on their medical condition, education, work experience, transferable skills, and other factors. The VE’s opinion is often critical in determining the individual’s eligibility for long-term disability benefits.
It is important for claimants to understand the role of a vocational expert in the long-term disability claim process and to work with their attorney or representative to ensure that their vocational evaluation is thorough and accurate. Claimants may also obtain their own vocational evaluation to understand better their ability to work and support their claim for disability benefits.