Research
VocRehab Vermont's dedication to improving the lives of our customers translates into an active research program. We want to understand the barriers to employment for people with disabilities, the issues employers face in retaining workers with disabilities, and the structural disincentives in the social services system that prevent people from working to their full potential.
That's why we're constantly piloting new service models, different program rules and policies, and digging into our data, to test what might work better for our customers.
benefits counseling services
August 2004
Benefits Counseling: A Proven Strategy for Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency for Vermonters with Disabilities
A presentation and one-page summary describing the benefits counseling model, outcomes, and a proposal for future funding of Vermont's statewide network of benefits counselors.
December 2004
Year 6 Report for the State Partnership Initiative: Benefits Counseling Outcomes
Final report on the SPI project, addressing benefits counseling program outcomes, SSI Waiver implementation and utilization, and the implementation of the Individual Placement and Support model of supported employment in community mental health centers.
Medicaid Buy-In
SSDI Benefit Offset Pilot (1 for 2)
Vermont is one of four states under contract with SSA to test whether an alternative method of calculating SSDI benefits will encourage more SSDI beneficiaries to return to work. Under current SSDI rules, if a beneficiary earns above a "substantial" level ($830 per month in 2005) after a nine month Trial Work Period they can lose their entire cash benefit. However, if keep their earnings below $830 they keep their entire SSDI cash benefit. This feature of the SSDI program has sometimes been referred to as the "cash cliff" because of the precipitous loss of benefits once a person earns above a substantial level. For decades now disability advocates have cited the SSDI "cash cliff" as a major disincentive to employment. This pilot will allow beneficiaries to work above the $830 substantial level. Instead of losing their cash benefits entirely, benefit payments will be reduced progressively by one dollar for every two dollars earned over the $830 threshold.
January 2009
Medicaid for Working People With Disabilities: Impacts of Eligibility Rules and Program Characteristics
In response to a legislative request, this report reviews the impact of current financial eligibility rules and other characteristics of the Medicaid for Working People With Disabilities (WPWD) program on eligibility and enrollments, and assesses the degree to which the program promotes employment opportunities and ensures access to health coverage for Vermonters with disabilities.
August 2006
Preliminary Cost-Benefit Analysis of Vermont's Medicaid Buy-In
Preliminary economic analysis finds a positive cost-benefit outcome for Vermont Medicaid Buy-In enrollees who receive benefits counseling services.
