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The federal Balanced Budget Act passed in 1997 includes a provision that removes the "prior institutionalization" test to receive supported employment and prevocational services under the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver programs effective October 1997. This means that supported employment services can be provided to all waiver participants, not just those with a history of insitutionalization. Now local funds can be supplemented with the 60% federal match under the MA waivers. This financial incentive should increase the likelihood that supported employment services will be available for all people who choose it. The state has sent information to county agencies to advise them how they might plan to use this new option. It is up to local agencies to use these new resources to help people with disabilities get and keep regular jobs in the community. Holly Fentress (608-267-9258) and Tammy Hofmeister (608-266-7251) of the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services can assist agencies who want to create, improve or expand supported employment services.
You can also use the services of the Client Assistance Program (CAP). CAP isn't a part of DVR, but can help explain DVR policies and procedures and your rights and responsibilities. CAP can also help people who have questions about rehabilitation services of have problems with the DVR service they receive. CAP can explain how the appeal process works and help you write your letter to request a hearing.
Client Assistance Program (CAP), 1 W. Wilson St., Room 558, P.O. Box 7850, Madison, WI 53707-7850. 1-800-362-1290 TTY/voice. Madison area: 608-267-7422.
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You can use a appeal process when an individual disagrees with a decision made by his/her DVR counselor. First notify the office supervison that you have a disagreement and request a hearing. If you are uncomfortable notifying the office supervisor, you can send your request directly to the DVR Hearing Coordinator, 2917 International Lane, P.O. Box 7852, Madison, WI 53707-7852.
An independent living center (ILC) is a consumer-directed, non-profit organization that provides an array of services, including: peer support, information and referral, independent living skills training, advocacy, community education, personal care and service coordination. Independent living centers also provide information and access to assistive technology as part of the WisTech Program.
Last update: March 2001