Funding Resources for Assistive Technology
Ernest continues his elk, cow-calf, wheat and hay operation while overcoming barriers related to Parkinson’s disease, severe arthritis and back pain. The Oklahoma AgrAbility Project and the Department of Rehabilitation Services assisted Ernest with obtaining a tractor seat designed to absorb vibration from the tractor and increase Ernest’s comfort while he uses the tractor. Ernest returned to using his tractor with decreased pain and increased efficiency.
Department of Rehabilitation Services
What is Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)?
VR services are counseling and guidance with job placement. VR assistance includes other services that compensate for, correct or prevent disability-based barriers to employment or self employment.
What kind of services can VR clients get?
Eligible clients may receive vocational, medical or psychological assessments; physical and mental restoration to improve employment opportunities; vocational training; rehabilitation equipment and devices; equipment to operate a business in a self employment case (such as farming); or specialized services for people who are blind, deaf, hard of hearing and those with speech impairments.
Who is eligible?
You are eligible for VR services if you have a physical, mental or visual disability that keeps you from working and can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services. You must require vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, find, keep or return to work.
How do you apply for services?
Individuals may apply at VR offices located throughout Oklahoma. To contact the office nearest you, telephone toll free 800-487-4042. You may also apply for services on line at Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services’ Web site, www.okdrs.gov.
If you have a disabling condition that is preventing you from working on the farm or ranch, you are eligible to receive AgrAbility services. But did you know you also may be eligible to receive services from the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services? The Oklahoma AgrAbility Project is a joint effort of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Oklahoma ABLE Tech, Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation and the Langston University School of Physical Therapy. Mention or display of a trademark, proprietary product or firm does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma State University, Langston University or the National AgrAbility Project, and does not imply approval to the exclusion of other suitable products or firms.
Oklahoma State University and Langston University, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of their policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services.
About Oklahoma AgrAbility
Oklahoma AgrAbility connects farmers and ranchers with disabilities to resources that may help provide continued success in their enterprise, operation and daily life activities. AgrAbility strives to provide education, assistance and support to those in need.
Contact Oklahoma AgrAbility
1-888-885-5588 (voice/tty) • www.agrability.okstate.edu • ability@okstate.edu
Department of Rehabilitation Services
What do VR services cost?
Some services, such as medical examinations to determine if you are eligible for services, vocational counseling and job placement, are always provided at no charge to you. You may be asked to share the cost of some other services, depending on your income and financial resources. Your counselor can provide a list of services available at no charge.
When can VR provide medical services?
When assistance is not available from another source. VR can provide diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental impairments when these services are needed for clients to prepare for, get, keep or return to work.
What is the VR process?
There are six steps the VR counselor will assist you through:
1. Application
2. Evaluating your disability
3. Determining your eligibility
4. Planning your services
5. Receiving your services
6. Getting or maintaining employment as determined by your plan
Does AgrAbility and DRS work together?
Yes, the AgrAbility specialist and your assigned DRS counselor will work together to ensure that the implementation of your plan will reduce your agricultural barriers and assist with your ability to continue farming.
Are there other resources?
Yes. DRS partners with many other programs across the state such as AgrAbility that may include additional specialized services. Some of the other state projects include the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Programs, Centers for Independent Living, and Workforce Oklahoma.
What if I don’t agree or am not satisfied with my progress?
You have a right to discuss a problem or concerns with your counselor at any time during your VR program. Please call for an appointment. Most concerns or problems can be worked out between the two of you. If you are not satisfied with a decision about your case you may contact the Client Assistance Program (CAP) by calling 800-845-8476. CAP staff can help you communicate concerns and assist you with administrative, education, legal or other solutions.
For More Information Contact
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
800-845-8476 Toll Free V/TTY
405-951-3400 Voice?TTY
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