Aspects of the workplace and return to work for persons with brain injury in supported employment

This prospective study examined the effect of work environments on return to work for persons with brain injuries. Participants (n = 37) were individuals placed into supported employment by six placement agencies. All were assessed using the Vocational Integration Index (VII), an observational instrument for rating the opportunities for integration (Job Scale) and the extent to which an employee benefits from those opportunities (Consumer Scale). Individuals who retained their jobs for 6 months (n = 19) had been rated higher on all subscales and total scores for the VII, with seven of eight subscales statistically significant. Findings are discussed in regard to improving employment outcomes for persons with severe brain injuries.