Vocational rehabilitation outreach to diverse populations: Identifying underserved populations through demographic analysis

Background Underserved populations face many barriers to vocational rehabilitation (VR) services. However, outreach can build bridges with underserved populations. Objective This study compares Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) client data with US Census data to identify which demographic groups are underserved at the national level. This data analysis strategy can also be applied by agencies and providers to identify underserved populations at the local level. Method RSA 911 data from 77 agencies in the United States and its territories between the first quarter of 2021 through the third quarter of 2023 was compared to US Census data. RSA 911 data was analyzed, quantifying VR populations by demographic type. Diachronic analysis was utilized to identify service changes over time. Results This study found that several historically underserved demographic groups—including African Americans and Native Americans—were being served by VR at or above those groups’ representation among the general population. However, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and female populations were underrepresented in VR applications. Conclusion VR agencies and providers have made significant progress with many traditionally underserved groups. However, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and female populations are groups that require enhanced outreach efforts. In addition, agencies and providers can compare local client data with local Census figures to identify local underserved populations.