[Some thoughts on the assessment of work capacity during therapy (author's transl)]

The "Gesetz über die Angelichung der Leistungen zur Rehabilitation" (Act on the Harmonisation of Rehabilitation Services) requires that during the implementation of any medical rehabilitation measure the possibilities be examined as to whether vocational rehabilitation services (training, assistance in job finding, assistance at work in the present job, occupational change within the company) can contribute to maintaining, improving or restoring the earning capacity. It is neither expected nor possible to make an accurate assessment of all occupational abilities. The evaluation can be made only for particular functions and skills. Also, it is not necessary that precise concepts concerning goals and type of vocational rehabilitation measures already be developed during the medical phase of rehabilitation. However, it is imperative to know whether the previous occupation can be maintained without jeopardizing the earning capacity, or whether vocational rehabilitation services are needed. In the latter case, the financially responsible agency for the rehabilitation process needs to be informed on work performance limitations, occupational risks and skills existing for a particular job. Furthermore, professionals working in facilities with psychological and vocational therapeutic units can give their opinion on the suit-ability of particular rehabilitation measures. View-points are discussed, which contribute to a clarification of the employment history and performance picture. The patient has to be informed of the effects of his disability and the progress which can be achieved, in order to motivate him to undergo vocational rehabilitation.