reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-1.5 - TRAVEL › Section 32-22-1.5.1 - Guidelines for Travel

Current through June 25, 2024
Voucher for Reimbursement of Expenses - Incident to Official Travel (13.20.10) form must be completed, signed, and sent for approval through your supervisor before being submitted to the finance office for reimbursement. The voucher must indicate your program code in the space labeled "Program" and your organization code should be written in the space indicated as "Org".
The actual dates of travel must be completed and the purpose and points of travel must be filled out for each day. All excessive mileage should include specific points of travel or an attached detailed itinerary. All literature pertaining to the trip(s), such as original itemized hotel receipts, literature indicating conference/meeting hotel rates, flight itineraries, etc., should be attached as well. The original travel voucher will be signed in any color ink except black.
The supervisor approving travel should sign on line reading "Approved for Payment"; the line reading "Verified By" is for finance use only.
The original and one copy will be sent to finance. The original and the copy should be stapled. The original receipts will be stapled to the back of the original voucher in the top left-hand corner and the copy should be an exact duplicate.
See the
Travel Policy
Section, of the
MDRS Administrative Policy Manual
for travel guidelines and policy.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-1.5 - TRAVEL › Section 32-22-1.5.2 - Use of Agency Vehicles

Current through June 25, 2024
Oversight responsibility for the legal, efficient and most cost effective operation of the agency's fleet of vehicles resides with the agency vehicle manager and the AbilityWorks Facility Managers.
Unsafe, careless, reckless or drunken driving will not be tolerated. All persons in supervisory roles are to investigate all instances of observed or reported unsafe driving and determine appropriate disciplinary action.
The use of seat belts by drivers and front seat passengers of all state-owned vehicles is mandated by Section XI of the
MDRS Motor Vehicle Use Policy.
Vehicle use will be documented by means of a travel log form. Information contained in that log will include odometer reading (beginning and ending), dates and destinations, purpose of each trip, fuel/oil purchases and driver's name.
All vehicle accidents should be investigated by the appropriate supervisor and documented on MDRS Accident Report (AI-1) form within 5 days of the accident. Copies of the report should be sent to the immediate supervisor and the agency vehicle manager.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-2.4 - CASE TRANSFER

Current through June 25, 2024
The counselor transferring an open case is to notify the receiving counselor of this intent (by mail or e-mail; with copy to the District Manager) prior to the transfer. A transfer summary will be completed in AACE case notes. This summary will include the following: brief summary of plans and the intent of case services.
The transferring counselor will mail the printed case file folder to the receiving counselor. The transferring counselor's District Manager/District Administrative Assistant will complete the electronic case transfer process in AACE. If the receiving counselor has not received either the electronic or printed case file within 5 working days from notification, he/she should contact the transferring counselor.
Printed case file folders will not be transferred for closed cases. The electronic file may be transferred at the receiving counselor's request. Copies of closed case file material will be forwarded if requested.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-2.5 - CASE REVIEW

Current through June 25, 2024
The following information must be recorded when the Program Evaluation Unit pulls a case for review:
* Date
* Client Name and Number
* Receiver/Reviewer
(User will insert current copy of the Program Evaluation Case Review Manual/Instrument; available through the District Manager.)
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-2.7 - INFORMED CHOICE RESPONSIBILITIES › Section 32-22-2.7.1 - MDRS

Current through June 25, 2024
The role of MDRS is to administer the VR program in a manner that supports the joint efforts of the individual and the VR counselor. MDRS provides such support by implementing policies and procedures that provide the maximum opportunity for individuals to exercise informed choice, for the VR counselor to support individuals in that effort, and for the development of employment and service options that meet a wide range of individual needs. Commitment to informed choice by the leadership of MDRS is critical to these efforts.
MDRS is responsible for facilitating the development of information resources, tools, and support services needed by individuals and counselors to fully implement informed choice. MDRS provides information in accessible formats or modes of communications that individuals can understand. MDRS also makes available a variety of resources to assist individuals in planning, problem solving, and building decision-making skills.
Working with State procurement staff and other relevant agencies, MDRS seeks maximum flexibility in procurement procedures for both the VR program and its participants. MDRS assures that its policies and procedures support an individuals ability to exercise informed choice so that MDRS policies and procedures do not result in the pre-selection of employment outcomes, services, and service providers for MDRS applicants and clients.
Beyond fulfilling program requirements, MDRS uses its resources and influence to promote and improve the implementation of informed choice. The capacity for resource development is used to increase the employment and training options that are available for clients and to support the development of service providers willing to negotiate with VR clients about individualized services. Providing training about implementation of informed choice to VR counselors and other service providers who interact with participants helps to assure consistent practices and to disseminate information about innovations. MDRS fosters the development of creative approaches for implementing informed choice by identifying, supporting, and replication promising practices.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-2.7 - INFORMED CHOICE RESPONSIBILITIES › Section 32-22-2.7.2 - Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

Current through June 25, 2024
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor facilitates the informed choice process with knowledge of rehabilitation and the VR process, an understanding of informed choice, information regarding rehabilitation resources and current labor market trends, and the experience of assisting other individuals through the VR process.
It is generally the responsibility of the VR counselor to inform the individual about available options for developing the IPE and for exercising informed choice and to assure that the individual understands the options. MDRS has developed specific brochures and handouts to aid in this process. The counselor assists the individual during the assessment process to discover the individuals strengths, abilities, capabilities, and interests. If appropriate, the counselor encourages the participation of family members and others in the VR process.
The VR counselor also assists the individual in exercising informed choice, informs the individual of services that support the individual in exercising informed choice, and helps the individual link with any necessary support services. The counselor facilitates the development of the individuals ability to gather information and supports the individual in making decisions to the best of the individuals ability. The counselor works with the individual to build relationships and to align resources that will enable the individual to exercise informed choice and to work toward the employment outcome.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-2.7 - INFORMED CHOICE RESPONSIBILITIES › Section 32-22-2.7.3 - Applicant or Client

Current through June 25, 2024
The individual must make decisions about the options for developing the IPE, the extent of technical assistance needed for exercising the various options, and the extent to which family members and others are to be involved in the IPE planning process.
Exercising informed choice and taking more responsibility in the VR process makes demands on individuals with disabilities, and may also make demands on other people in their lives. To be fully engaged in the VR process, including development of the IPE, the individual must gather and use information to the extent possible, participate in planning and problem solving, make and implement decisions, and seek or identify needed resources. The individual engages in these activities to make decisions about the selection of the employment outcome, VR services, service providers, service and employment settings, and methods for procuring services. Once the IPE has been signed both by the individual and the VR counselor employed by the State VR agency, the individual assumes the responsibilities identified in the IPE for implementing the decisions and achieving the employment outcome.
(Sections 2(c)(1), 100(a)(3)(C), 101(a)(6)(C), (8)(A), (9)(B), and (19); 102(b)(1)(A), (2)(B) and (C), (3)(A) and (3)(E)(i) and (ii); 102(d); and 103(a) and (a)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.)
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.0 - Special Services & Programs

Current through June 25, 2024
Any question a counselor may have regarding a particular service or program area should be submitted in writing to the District Manager. If the District Manager is unable to answer the question, it should be forwarded to the State Office staff person assigned as coordinator for that area. The District Manager should forward all complaints regarding client services being provided by a particular vendor/service provider to the State Coordinator for that area. The list below identifies the Agency staff responsible for various services and programs.
Alcohol and Drug Services
Joyce White
Assistive Technology Program
Vacant
Business & Agricultural Projects
Joyce White
CARF/ Vocational Evaluation/Adjustment Services
Mike Ward
Community Rehabilitation Programs
Joyce White
Comparable Services and Benefits
Joyce White
CRP Training Issues/DOL Issues/AbilityWorks Manual
Anna Thornton
Deaf Services Program
Denee Smith
Dental Services
Dwight Gregory
Durable Medical Equipment
Vacant
Grant Development
Dr. Michael Gandy
Hospital Rehabilitation Centers
Dwight Gregory
Independent Living Services for the Blind
Linda Hall
Independent Living Services
Shella Head
Job Development/Placement Program
Bob McDonald
Out-of-State Services
Dwight Gregory
Post-Secondary Education Services
Joyce White
Program Evaluation System
Chris Shackleford
Project START
Dorothy Young
Psychometric/Psychological Services Program
Dr. J. Rowzee/D. Gregory
Secondary Education/Transition Services Program
Patty Horton/Donny Fraizer
Selected Social Security Services/M-PIC
Vicki Thornton
Supported Employment Program
Patty Horton
Traumatic Brain & Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund
Allison Lowther
Visual Impairment Special Services
Dr. Michael Gandy
Weight Management Services
Dwight Gregory
WIA Youth Employment Skills Training (EST) Program
Bob McDonald
Workers' Compensation Referral Program
Joyce White
Workforce Development - WIN Job Centers
Bob McDonald
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.2 - Referrals For At Services

Current through June 25, 2024
VR/VRB, OSDP, and ILB field staff will refer their clients to the Agencys Assistive Technology program by creating a Service Authorization in AACE.
NOTE: It is imperative that the counselor verify that the information in the referral is accurate and up-to-date.
The referral will be assigned to the appropriate AT professional. The counselor will be advised via e-mail the name of his/her contact. Complete medical packets should be forwarded (mailed/eCopied/faxed) to the appropriate professional handling the case.
The following information must be included in the referral packet:
a) Medical reports, as
				indicated by the clients disability(ies).
b) Specialist reports, as appropriate to the
				individuals disability(ies) for the services being requested (i.e.,
				psychological evaluation, educational diagnostic testing, orthopedic reports,
				ophthalmology reports, occupational therapy reports, physical therapy reports,
				and pertinent reports from rehabilitation centers)
c) An in-depth description of the client's
				limitations and how they impact him/her.
Once the service authorization and medical packet have been
				  reviewed by the AT professional, he/she will notify the client and the
				  referring counselor of the date and time of the initial evaluation. The
				  counselor must identify the clients vendor of choice prior to any vendor
				  accompanying an AT professional or counselor during an evaluation for durable
				  medical equipment. Additionally, having vendors present during an evaluation
				  should be limited and only with approval of the district manager. The counselor
				  is encouraged to maintain contact with the client and notify the AT
				  professional of any changes in the client's status or condition. After
				  performing an initial evaluation for the requested AT service, the AT
				  professional will send a report with all recommendations and cost estimates to
				  the counselor. The counselor will request, in writing, the specifications,
				  drawings, and/or other information necessary for the provision of the AT
				  service.
NOTE: AT recommendations are valid for one year from date of
				  evaluation, with the exception of computer access evaluations which are valid
				  for six months. If action is taken on a report that is over this limit, the AT
				  program should be consulted to determine if any changes should be made to the
				  recommendation. Also, should there be any significant changes in the client's
				  physical and/or cognitive abilities, the AT program should be consulted to
				  determine if any changes should be made to the original recommendation.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.4 - Maintenance and Repair Costs

Current through June 25, 2024
An AT professional will assist the client in securing satisfactory adjustments when problems occur that are under warranty or are reasonably expected to be remedied by a vendor at no cost to MDRS. It is the client's responsibility to provide ongoing upkeep and maintenance cost. The Agency is not responsible for upkeep, repairs, or replacement of vehicle modifications, wheelchairs/scooters, computers, or other AT equipment.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.5 - Customized Services › Section 32-22-3.2.5.2 - Home Modification

Current through June 25, 2024
Home modification is the application of assistive technology to the residence of a client to remove barriers that prevent the client from reaching his/her specified goal. The desired goal(s) should be clearly stated on the referral for AT evaluation and consistent with the clients vocational or independence goal.
MDRS will not provide home modifications to a residence that is structurally unsound or in such disrepair that to not have repairs prior to providing the modification would compromise the safety and effectiveness of the modification.
Title to Property - Prior to referring an individual to the AT program for a home modification evaluation, the counselor must determine property ownership of the residence to be modified. Rental or mortgaged property and/or property owned by someone other than the client may be considered for modification by MDRS for non-permanent modifications that can be moved to another location should the client move. It is necessary to secure written permission from the titleholder prior to modifying any property. This includes property:
* Owned by other parties
* Mortgaged
* Rented
* Otherwise encumbered that could impede client's use
* Owned by the client or the client and others
NOTE: Counselors should make a determination that the cost of any home modification is commensurate with the value of the home.
Home Additions - At no time will MDRS pay for modifications that add to the total square footage of the home. Total square footage refers to that area that is originally heated and cooled. MDRS may, however, pay for accessibility modifications to home additions that have been paid for by the client that are a component part of the original roofline.
MDRS DOES NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HOMES OTHER THAN IN AN ADVISORY CAPACITY.
Home Repair/Maintenance - MDRS does not pay for home repairs or general maintenance of homes.
Changes to Specifications - If it is necessary to make changes to the specifications, these changes must be made in writing with the approval of the AT professional who formulated the specifications. The AT professional, the client, the counselor, and the contractor must then sign these changes before they will be accepted. The counselor is not responsible for payment of additions to the specifications unless this procedure has been followed. The counselor should notify the client and the contractor that MDRS is not responsible for payment of additions to the specifications unless this procedure has been followed.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.5 - Customized Services › Section 32-22-3.2.5.3 - Job Site Accommodation

Current through June 25, 2024
Job site accommodation is the process of modifying or rearranging job tasks (parts of a job) to allow a person with a disability to continue to work. Often a person with a disability can complete most of the job tasks required for a job, however, there may be specific job tasks that the client cannot complete without modification due to the limitations imposed by the disability.
The service authorization should identify the specific functional limitation that needs to be addressed. It is essential that the counselor work with the employer to achieve the required services. Counselors are reminded of ADA and 504 responsibilities; however, the success of the clients rehabilitation takes precedence.
For in-house job site accommodations refer to Chapter 1.02 of the MDRS Policy Manual.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.5 - Customized Services › Section 32-22-3.2.5.4 - Seating and Mobility

Current through June 25, 2024
Evaluation of the client in his/her home or other appropriate setting will be conducted in order to evaluate the client for a proper seating and/or mobility system. The AT professional will determine if there are any physical deformities and/or limitations such as pelvic obliquities, scoliosis, contractures, fixations, etc. that need to be addressed by an occupational therapist or physical therapist. NOTE: Medicare and some private insurance companies require seating and mobility systems to be evaluated/recommended by a licensed occupational or physical therapist.
The counselor should secure the signature of the client on the Client/Owner Agreement of Understanding (MDRS-AT-02) before the authorization is issued. A signed copy should be given to the client and the original retained in the case file. During the delivery of the seating and mobility system, the Agency AT professional should secure the signature of the client on the Assistive Technology Equipment Delivery Receipt (MDRS-AT-03). A signed copy should be given to the client and the original must be retained in the case file.
Repairs. MDRS does not provide routine maintenance or repair. Referrals for AT service should not be made for routine maintenance or repair. The client should contact a local vendor for repair service or the manufacturer directly
.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.2 - ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY › Section 32-22-3.2.6 - Durable Medical Equipment (DME) › Section 32-22-3.2.6.1 - Orthotic/Prosthetic Services & Appliances

Current through June 25, 2024
The VR counselor should provide the VR client with sufficient information for the client to make informed choice regarding the provision of the orthotic / prosthetic (O & P) service.
* Prescriptions: The provision of all orthotic or prosthetic devices, or the modification of such items, must be prescribed by an orthopedist, surgeon or M.D., licensed in the State to prescribe it.
* Authorizations: Authorizations for orthotic or prosthetic device/services must be issued only to a facility/location where the fitting, fabrication, modification or repair of same is performed by or under the direction of a certified prosthetist and orthotist, a certified orthotist in the case of an orthotic device, or a certified prosthetist in the case of a prosthesis. Please see the fee schedule for detailed information for authorizations.
* Physical Therapy: When a new prosthetic device is prescribed for a person with an amputation, he or she should receive an initial physical therapy (PT) treatment/ training in a rehabilitation hospital, community hospital, or medical clinic setting if possible. The amount of time, care and services provided in the home by a home health physical therapist may not be uniform, and the length of physical therapy (prosthetic/gait training, etc.) time spent during the home visit may not be as comprehensive as conducted in a hospital or clinic setting.
* Checkout Sessions: Clients receiving upper and lower extremity prostheses should participate in the following checkout (office visit) sessions with at least the physical therapist and the orthotic & prosthetic company representative. When feasible, the team approach in the checkout sessions, which would include the client, the orthopedist, the physical therapist, the O & P company representative, and the VR counselor, is better for everyone.
These checkout sessions are to discuss and review the client's physical condition, and to review how the orthotic/prosthetic device is fitting and/or functioning, and like factors. In addition, these sessions allow upper and lower extremity wearers to demonstrate the individual is receiving maximum utilization of the preparatory (temporary) or the definitive (permanent) device.
At the completion of the initial physical therapy evaluation/training, the counselor should initially authorize, as needed, a minimum of ten physical therapy sessions and prosthetic/gait training sessions to insure maximum utilization of the prosthetic device. At the end of two months (60 days), the check-out session will be held to demonstrate the definitive (permanent) limb, how it fits, to check for shrinkage, swelling, skin irritation, etc.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.1 - Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind

Current through June 25, 2024
The Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind (AMRC), located in Jackson, provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to adults who are blind or have severe visual impairments. The Addie McBryde Center focuses on the Traditional Method of instruction which utilizes remaining sight as a key tool in instruction. Services include:
* Evaluation
* Training in low vision
* Center-based and itinerant orientation
* Mobility Training
* Communication Skills
* Personal Management
* Techniques of daily living
* Recreation and Physical Conditioning
* Psychological Evaluation
* Vocational Evaluation
* Personal Adjustment Counseling
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.2 - REACH Center for the Blind

Current through June 25, 2024
The REACH Center, located in Tupelo, is a residential personal adjustment facility for individuals with blind or visual impairments living in Mississippi.
The REACH Center operates as an immersion center following the Structured Discovery Method of instruction, a non-visual technique of instruction that helps build self-confidence and teaches important life skills and problem solving.
Using blindfolds, referred to as "sleep shades", REACH students are taught to believe in and rely on their other senses for information. They learn to do simple, everyday tasks as a blind person in a highly supportive environment.
The majority of classes are in two-hour blocks. This allows the student plenty of time to problem-solve. Classes offered initially include: GED Preparation
* Health Education
* Leisure Activities/Community Involvement
* Vocational Evaluation
The REACH Center services consist of a mandatory six to nine month core curriculum that include:
* Cane Travel
* Home Economics
* Industrial Arts
* Braille
* Computer/Technology
* Techniques of Daily Living
As students near the completion of the core curriculum, they have the opportunity to participate in a variety of additional classes. These classes include, but are not limited to:
* Career exploration/job seeking skills
* Resume preparation and practice interviews
Students who complete the six to nine month program at REACH receive a certificate of completion and leave the center as more confident, independent individuals.
Referral Process for Addie McBryde and REACH
When the counselor determines that the client is in need of services offered by AMRC or REACH, the referring counselor will complete a service authorization in AACE listing the service/s they are requesting. The counselor must plan all anticipated services. The medical records and other referral material are to be sent by mail as soon as possible. Once all referral materials are received, the Addie McBryde Center staff will approve the authorization and issue it in AACE. If additional services are needed, the counselor will modify the original service request and add the additional services needed. Once services are completed, the authorization will be closed in AACE by the Addie McBryde or REACH Center staff Any information regarding the client can be accessed through AACE.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.2 - Comprehensive Vocational Evaluation Services

Current through June 25, 2024
Vocational evaluation is a comprehensive process that systematically utilizes work, either paid or simulated, as the focal point for evaluation and vocational exploration to assist the person with vocational development.
Vocational evaluation services are designed to assess the client's physical and mental capacities, job interests, work behaviors, need for accommodations, general work knowledge, etc. The vocational evaluation process serves the purpose of providing the client and VR counselor with the information needed to make an informed choice regarding his/her employment objective and vocational goal.
Vocational evaluation should have the capacity to assess all of the areas below; however, the need to assess every clients functioning in the following areas is determined on an individual basis:
* Physical and psychomotor capacities and limitations
* Intellectual capacities
* Social, personal, and work related behaviors
* Interests, attitudes, career aspirations, and knowledge of occupational information
* Personal, social and work histories
* Aptitudes
* Achievements (e.g. educational and vocational)
* Work skills and tolerance
* Job Seeking and Job Retention skills
* Identification of work and non-work related needs
* Possible employment objectives
* Ability to learn about themselves
* Learning style (ability to understand, recall, and respond to various types of instruction)
* Need for tool and/or job site modifications or adaptive equipment
* Transferable skills
* Environmental conditions
* Assistive technology and reasonable accommodations
* Community and employment supports
* Independent living
* Loss of access to the labor market or earning capacity
* Mode of communication
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.3 - Evaluation Techniques

Current through June 25, 2024
A variety of work settings and tasks are utilized to ensure all the evaluation needs of the client are met. Vocational evaluation services should draw on one or more of the following techniques based on the specific abilities and needs of the persons served:
1. Work samples - When work samples are used,
					 written instructions specify materials used, equipment used, layout, methods
					 for administration, and interpretation of scoring.
2. Situational assessment When situational
					 assessments are used, they are evaluated as to the following: adequacy of
					 supervision, safety, appropriateness of work behaviors, potential job
					 accommodations, accessibility issues, expectations for quality and quantity of
					 work, physical demands of the job, tasks and demands related to the goals of
					 the situation assessment, and other issues as appropriate to the persons
					 seeking employment.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.4 - Individual Evaluation Plan (IEP)

Current through June 25, 2024
Each client shall participate in the development of his/her Individual Evaluation Plan. Any evaluation plan is based on the referral information, intake interview, questions asked by the referral source, stated purpose of the evaluation, opportunities available in the local labor market, and the individuals interests and capabilities.
Most services rendered by AbilityWorks can be obtained either inside the facility or outside the facility through LINCS (see section 3 page 29). Even vocational testing can be arranged to be completed at an off site location, if this is the appropriate option for all parties concerned.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.5 - Evaluation Service Review (Staffing) Reports

Current through June 25, 2024
Service reviews (staffing) are held monthly and should include input from the client, clients evaluator, referring counselor, and other parties involved in the clients plan. Service review (staffing) should address the clients progress toward the questions outlined in his/her IEP, be relevant to desired employment outcome, and justify recommendations regarding the continuation of his/her program. A service review (staffing) will be held prior to the completion of the evaluation. It will address the results of the evaluation and justify recommendations, if necessary.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.6 - Evaluation Summary or Evaluation Closing Summary

Current through June 25, 2024
For clients moving from evaluation to job readiness, the evaluation summary will be completed within seven (7) calendar days, disseminated to the appropriate individuals (client, referring counselor), and properly interpreted to the client. If services ended after evaluation, the evaluator will then have fourteen (14) calendar days from the clients discharge date in which to complete, sign, and disseminate the report.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.7 - Job Readiness Services

Current through June 25, 2024
Job readiness is a transitional, time-limited, systematic training program that assists individuals move toward their optimal level of vocational development. Job readiness utilizes real or simulated work. The intent of the program is to assist persons to understand the meaning, value, and demands of work; to learn or reestablish skills, attitudes, personal characteristics, and work behaviors, and to develop functional capacities. Job readiness services may require environmental accommodations. Services should be consistent with the persons employment objectives and relevant to the current geographical labor market.
Admission Criteria
The requirements for entrance to the job readiness services unit are as follows:
1. Has
					 VR referral
2. Is at least 16 years
					 of age
3. Has prior medical and/or
					 psychological assessment appropriate to disabling conditions
4. Is non-dangerous to self and/or
					 others
5. Is free of any acute
					 medical and/or psychological conditions
6. Is able to care for his/her own personal
					 needs
7. Has vocational potential
					 determined
8. Has specific job goal
					 determined
9. Has specifically
					 identified problems to employment that need improvement
Services
Job readiness services should be comprehensive enough to
						address or obtain information concerning the following areas; however, the need
						to address every clients functioning in the following areas is determined on an
						individual basis:
1. Awareness of
					 requirements for attendance, punctuality, and grooming
2. Job seeking skills
3. On-the-job performance skills (e.g.;
					 quality and quantity of work)
4.
					 Work-related community skills (e.g.; time, mobility, and money
					 management)
5. Functional literacy
					 skills (e.g.; want ads, personnel handbooks, and safety signs)
6. Knowledge of work practices (e.g.; payroll
					 deductions, unions, benefits, retirement, insurance, and safety)
7. Work-related academic skills
8. Work-related communication
					 skills
9. Access to governmental
					 and community service agencies
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.8 - AbilityWorks LINCS - Linking Innovative Networks of Community Services

Current through June 25, 2024
* LINCS - Vocational Evaluation
* LINCS - Job Readiness
* LINCS - Job Tryout
In situations when AbilityWorks is not able to provide vocational evaluation or job readiness in the CRP environment for a specific job in which a client has interest, LINCS can be provided.
The local AbilityWorks can secure a cooperative agreement with a local business to provide the evaluation, job readiness training or job tryout.
The evaluator should be the primary CRP staff member coordinating the evaluation, job readiness or job tryout between the local business and the CRP. The facility manager must approve all LINCS agreements. Other CRP staff may assist in the process of the LINCS as needed.
Procedures to follow when utilizing LINCS:
1. The number in hours of evaluation, job
					 readiness or job tryout should be predetermined and should be sufficient to
					 allow the client and evaluator to obtain specific results to indicate if the
					 client is capable of performing that particular job or obtain his/her specific
					 vocational goal.
2. AbilityWorks
					 will pay the client minimum wage for the work activity during the vocational
					 evaluation, job readiness training or job tryout.
3. The LINCS experience should be a useful
					 tool to aid in determining a feasible vocational goal. It will also help
					 determine the clients vocational strengths and weakness.
4. The business AbilityWorks partners with
					 must report the clients progress verbally or in writing to the evaluator or
					 designee as agreed.
5. The business
					 will be required to verify the number of hours worked by each client on a
					 weekly basis, in writing.
When LINCS is utilized, the evaluator should evaluate the
						job site in regard to its appropriateness in the following areas:
1. Adequate supervision
2. Safety
3. Physical accessibility/worksite
					 accommodations
4. Transportation
					 accessibility
5. Competitiveness of
					 work tasks and demands/expectations for quality and quantity of work
For clients that need additional job readiness training
						beyond the scope of the LINCS being provided, the facility manager, VR district
						manager and VR regional manager should be consulted to ensure adequate funding
						is available before additional training is offered.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.1 - Public › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3 - AbilityWorks, Inc › Section 32-22-3.4.1.3.9 - Mississippi Industries for the Blind

Current through June 25, 2024
Mississippi Industries for the Blind (MIB) is a separate state entity. Services provided at MIB are directed primarily to OVRB clients who are referred for employment. These services are designed to bridge the gap between the non-working individual and a productive worker. Services include, but are not limited to; counseling & guidance, vocational adjustment training, competitive job placement, work experience and evaluation of need for services from other programs.
The counselor will forward to MIB a vendor authorization listing the service to be purchased and all appropriate referral material. Vendor authorizations should be issued for the maximum amount (i.e., according to the IPE). Vendor authorizations must be received in a timely manner. The MIB Program Coordinator for Rehabilitation Services will complete the vendor authorization and return it to the counselor, along with an individual client progress report. The referring counselor will approve the vendor authorization for payment (in part or total) in AACE and send the signed authorization to finance for payment of the bill.
The referral package should include the following information:
* IPE (Include job readiness and the length of time service is to be provided)
* Reports from the Addie McBryde Center or other CRP; if available
* Eye examination reports
* Educational background
* Any previous work experience
* Physical/Medical reports
* Transportation needs
Proper planning and communication with MIB will allow the counselor to authorize for support services, such as transportation and medical needs, in accordance with the MDRS Fee Schedule.
Counselors must participate in the staffing of their client receiving job readiness training. The counselor is encouraged to attend staffing. Staffing by telephone is recommended when travel is extreme or difficult to schedule. A rehabilitation counselor for the blind has been assigned as a liaison counselor to MIB. This liaison counselor attends all staffing and meets individually with clients. Monthly reports on specific issues are provided to the referring counselor and specified Agency staff.
For more information contact: Rehabilitation Program Coordinator, Mississippi Industries for the Blind, Post Office Box 4417, Jackson, MS 39296-4417.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.2 - PRIVATE › Section 32-22-3.4.2.1 - Goodwill Industries

Current through June 25, 2024
Goodwill Industries of America, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization. The Agency has contractual agreements with two Goodwill centers (Goodwill Industries of Jackson, Inc. and Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi, Inc.). The services provided are vocational evaluation, job readiness, and limited vocational training programs.
The counselor will forward to Goodwill a vendor authorization listing the service to be provided and all appropriate referral material. The counselor is to plan all anticipated services, but issue vendor authorizations as the client is referred for each service. Vendor authorizations should be issued for the maximum amount (i.e., according to the IPE). Vendor authorizations must be received in a timely manner. Goodwill will submit a signed statement detailing the number of days of service the client received in a given month to the referring counselor, as well as an individual client progress report. The referring counselor will approve the vendor authorization for payment in AACE and send the signed vendor authorization to finance for payment of the bill. Goodwill may submit the statement at the end of the month or at any time during the month for those who change service area or are closed from the program before the end of the month.
Counselors must participate in the staffing of the client receiving job readiness training. Staffing by telephone is recommended when travel is extreme or difficult to schedule.
For more information contact: Goodwill Industries of Jackson, 863 Centre Street, Ridgeland, MS 39157 or Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi, 2407 31st Street, Gulfport, MS 39501
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.2 - PRIVATE › Section 32-22-3.4.2.2 - MIDD-West Industries

Current through June 25, 2024
MIDD-West Industries is a private, non-profit organization operated by the Warren County ARC. The Agency has a contractual agreement with MIDD-West to provide vocational evaluation and job readiness services.
The counselor will forward to MIDD-West a vendor authorization listing the service to be provided and all appropriate referral material. The counselor is to plan all anticipated services, but issue vendor authorizations as the client is referred for each service. Vendor authorizations should be issued for the maximum amount (i.e., according to the IPE). Vendor authorizations must be received in a timely manner. MIDD-West will submit a signed statement detailing the number of days of service the client received in a given month to the referring counselor, as well as, an individual client progress report. The referring counselor will approve the vendor authorization for payment and send the signed vendor authorization to finance for payment of the bill.
Counselors must participate in the staffing of their client receiving vocational evaluation and job readiness training. Staffing by telephone is recommended when travel is extreme or difficult to schedule.
For more information contact: MIDD-West Industries, 100 Smokey Lane, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.4 - COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS › Section 32-22-3.4.4 - Employment Identity & Eligibility (I-9) Information

Current through June 25, 2024
The Immigration Act requires anyone applying for employment to provide documented proof of employment identity and eligibility. Proper I-9 documents are required for all clients for whom paid work is part of their CRP program. Before the client can be placed on the CRP's payroll, at least one current document from each category must be presented to the center staff for verification.
Category I - Employment Identity
* Driver's license or identification card issued by a state or outlying possession of the United States containing a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, sex, height, eye color, and address
* Identification card issued by a federal, state, or local governmental agency or entity containing a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, sex, height, eye color, and address
* School identification card with a photograph
* Voter's registration card
* U.S. Military card or draft record
* Military dependent's identification card
* U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner card
* Native American tribal document
Category II - Employment Eligibility
* U.S. Social Security card (original)
* Original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the United States bearing an official seal.
Mississippi Administrative Code › Title 32 - Rehabilitation And Disabilities › Part 22 - Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Resource Guide › Section 32-22-3.6 - DEAF SERVICES PROGRAM › Section 32-22-3.6.2 - Speech Limitations

Current through June 25, 2024
Degree of Disability (dB Range 0-110):
0 - 25
Normal Range of Hearing
No significant difficulty with faint speech
26 - 40
Mild Hearing Loss
Difficulty with faint speech
41 - 55
Moderate Hearing Loss
Frequent difficulty with normal speech
56 - 70
Moderately Severe Hearing Loss
Frequent difficulty with loud speech
71 - 90
Severe Hearing Loss
Can understand only shouted or amplified speech
91+
Profound Hearing Loss
Usually cannot understand even amplified speech without visual cues