Serving People with Cardiovascular Disease in the State-Federal Vocational Rehabilitation Program: A Sequenced Case Management Approach from Outreach to Case Closure

Background With prevalence rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on the rise across the globe, people with CVD are an emerging vocational rehabilitation (VR) consumer population. Objective This article provides recommendations for working with people who have CVD across the phases of the VR process. Method Following an overview of the etiology, incidence, prevalence, and career development implications of CVD, the authors present direct service and advocacy recommendations for VR professionals. Results The importance of access to quality healthcare, lifestyle and environmental modifications to promote heart and circulatory health, employer consultation, workplace accommodations and universal design, and interface with medical and mental health professionals is emphasized throughout the article. Conclusions Rehabilitation professionals must be prepared to meet the needs of this growing and diverse clientele as people with CVD seek assistance from the VR program in acquiring, maintaining, and advancing in meaningful, satisfying employment.