Which factor is crucial for evaluating an employee's eligibility for rehabilitation benefits?

The severity of the injury and the employee's ability to return to work is a crucial factor in evaluating eligibility for rehabilitation benefits because these benefits are specifically designed to assist injured workers in recovering and facilitating their return to gainful employment. Rehabilitation benefits often focus on the need for vocational training, medical treatment, or other support services that can impact an employee's capacity to resume their previous role or adapt to a new one.

If the injury is severe and significantly affects the person's ability to work, determining their rehabilitation needs becomes essential. Eligibility hinges on whether the employee can resume their job or if they require additional training or support to transition to a different position. Understanding the interplay between the injury's severity and the resultant capability to work allows rehabilitation programs to be tailored effectively, ensuring workers receive appropriate assistance based on their individual circumstances.