1. (a)

   1. (1) The purpose of the initial interview is to gather information about the client that will be used to determine service needs.
   2. (2) The information gathered during this meeting is used to complete the OIB Application and the AWARE Intake Page.
   3. (3) The initial interview will be documented in AWARE under the Initial Narrative case note.

2. (b)

   1. (1) Once an individual submits a signed application, the individual will be considered an applicant.
   2. (2) The actual date of the application should be entered on the Intake Page in AWARE.
   3. (3) The date in AWARE must match the date of the signed application.
   4. (4) The signed application must be scanned into AWARE.

3. (c)

   1. (1) During the application process, the counselor must gather the necessary documentation to determine eligibility.
   2. (2) This includes the consumer’s release of information and visual report.

   3. (3)

      1. (A) Use the Division of State Services for the Blind Eye Report Form (DSB-8012) or a letter from the consumer’s doctor giving the consumer’s:

4. (i) Visual acuity;

   1. (ii) Visual fields;

      1. (iii) Diagnosis;

         1. (iv) Prognosis; and
         2. (v) Recommendations.

      2. (B) The doctor must sign the eye report/letter.

         1. (d) If needed, the following services may be provided while in the application process, in order to allow the consumer to participate in the application process:
   2. (1) Assessment;
   3. (2) Transportation;
   4. (3) Reader service; and
   5. (4) Interpreter service.

Codification Notes: “OIB” means older individuals who are blind.