Policy Issues in Vocational Rehabilitation Related to Consumers with Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies demonstrate wide reporting variability regarding the prevalence of substance use disorders among consumers of their services. The differences do not appear to correspond with state-level data derived from the general population in national substance use/abuse studies. This study reports findings from national surveys of VR program directors and counselors in regard to policy, practice, and professional perceptions. Results indicate that there are differences in the perceptions of profossionals regarding order of selection, sobriety waiting policies, and estimates of substance abuse but no relationship between state VR policies and the variability found in SUD rates.