Section 281.56.8. Case diagnosis used in case recording.

 The diagnosis of an individual with a disability is conducted by qualified personnel under state licensure laws, and the division personnel use that information as part of the eligibility requirements. The eligibility of the individual constitutes a comprehensive study of the individual, including a medical as well as a vocational impediment of the individual. Each case diagnosis is based on pertinent information, including the individual’s health and physical status, intelligence, educational background and achievements, vocational aptitudes and interests, employment experience and opportunities, and personal and social adjustments. This information then is used to assess the significant impediments posed by the diagnosis toward employment to determine and identify the comprehensive services needed to prepare for, obtain, maintain, or advance in competitive integrated employment.

         56.8(1) Medical diagnosis. As a basis for determination of eligibility and formulation of the individual’s rehabilitation plan, the division secures competent medical diagnosis. When necessary, the diagnosis is, if at all practicable and appropriate, secured from recognized specialists in specific fields indicated by the general medical diagnosis. Whenever possible, the diagnosis is accompanied by recommendations as to the means and methods of restoration and by a statement of any physical or mental limitations that may exist.

         56.8(2) Current medical reports. The division accepts a medical report in lieu of securing a new examination when the report can be relied upon to provide a sound basis for diagnosis of the physical or mental condition of the individual; is from providers or sources as listed in the case service manual; and is from an accredited or certified medical or treatment institution recognized by the state of Iowa or licensed by the department of public health or department of human services in any other state.

         56.8(3) Current health assessment. The division requires that a current health assessment questionnaire is completed and placed in the record at the time of application if the individual with a disability does not have medical records within the last three years.

         56.8(4) Vocational impediment. The methods of determining vocational impediments include counseling interviews with the job candidate; reports from medical, psychological, or psychiatric providers; and reports from schools, employers, social agencies, and others.

         56.8(5) Recording case data. The division maintains a record for each case. The case record contains pertinent case information including, as a minimum, the basis for determination of eligibility, the basis justifying the plan of services and the reason for closing the case, together with a justification of the closure. A case record may not be destroyed until four years after the case has been closed. A case record documenting participation in a transitional alliance program shall be maintained until the job candidate reaches age 25 or later.

         56.8(6) Achievement of an employment outcome. Any eligible individual, including an individual who is presumed eligible, must intend to achieve an employment outcome that is consistent with the individual’s unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice. The DSU is responsible for informing individuals, through the application process for services, that individuals who receive services from the DSU must intend to achieve an employment outcome. The individual’s completion of the application process for vocational rehabilitation services is sufficient evidence of the individual’s intent to achieve an employment outcome.

[ ARC 2844C , IAB 12/7/16, effective 1/11/17]