A call for a national evidence-based programs and practices registry in vocational rehabilitation

BACKGROUND: As the volume of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in vocational rehabilitation (VR) reaches a critical mass and leaders in the field recommend the need for a systematic and rigorous evaluation process that legitimizes and the effectiveness of those practices, a national registry in VR is clearly needed. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper is to provide the underlying rationale for the creation and maintenance of a user-friendly registry that would secure and support vocational service provision to improve employment outcomes and the quality of life of individuals with disabilities. METHODS: Collaboration from various entities is necessary to ensure the resources and credibility required for a project of this magnitude. All stakeholders should participate in the process of specifying what should be included in the registry and how they would use it. RESULTS: A registry would be a valuable vehicle for providing empirically-supported VR services and information to practitioners, educators, researchers, policy-makers and the public. It would allow for better-informed choices and potential cost savings. CONCLUSIONS: A registry containing effective VR practices is a perfect complement to the National Clearinghouse of Rehabilitation Training Materials and answers an important call from the VR community.