This presentation, led by Christina Espinosa, Sandy Conder, Michelle Hoversten, and Phillip Rumrill, addresses "Rural & Remote Service Provision for Vocational Rehabilitation Consumers in the COVID-19 Era." Supported by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment, the presenters aim to discuss technical assistance, COVID-19's impact on VR service delivery in rural areas, and the influence of the national labor shortage. They explore the unique challenges faced by remote communities, such as limited diversity and access to healthcare, and consider the ethical aspects of remote customer engagement. Additionally, the presentation touches on the long-term health impact of COVID-19, mental health considerations, and the dos and don'ts of remote service provision in the current era.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss technical assistance and other services provided by the UK Human Development Institute.
• Discuss what is new with COVID-19 and how it has shaped VR service delivery in rural and remote communities.
• Examine the effects of the national labor shortage and current economic trends on rural and remote VR service provision.
• Consider the ethics of remote customer engagement and privacy concerns.