Who selects the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor?

In Hawaii's workers' compensation system, the selection of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is typically made by the injured employee. This process recognizes the employee's right to have a say in their rehabilitation and vocational planning, as they are the ones directly affected by the workplace injury. The employee's choice allows for a more personalized approach to rehabilitation, enabling them to select a counselor they feel comfortable working with, which can ultimately enhance the effectiveness of the services received.

Empowering the employee in this decision-making process aligns with the principles of workers' compensation, which aim to support injured workers in returning to work effectively. The other options involve decision-making by parties who may not have the same vested interest in the rehabilitation process as the employee, which could lead to a less effective fit between the worker and the counselor. This aspect highlights the importance of employee engagement in their recovery journey.