1. (a)

   1. (1) The primary purpose of determining eligibility is to identify those individuals with visual disabilities who may be served with OIB funds.
   2. (2) The intent is to empower the individual to maximize their independence in the home and community.

2. (b)

   1. (1) An eye medical report completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist should be obtained to make an eligibility determination.

   2. (2)

      1. (A) The eye report must be recent.
      2. (B) For the Division of State Services for the Blind, recent means the exam must be no more than one (1) year old at the date of application.
   3. (3) It is important to note an eligibility decision can only be made by a vocational rehabilitation counselor, supervisor, or director employed by the division.
   4. (4) All determinations are subject to review by the Director of the Division of State Services for the Blind.

3. (c) When documenting an eligibility decision, the following items must be done before a determination is complete:

   1. (1) Enter disability into AWARE with documentation included;

   2. (2)

      1. (A) Complete the Eligibility Determination Data Page in AWARE.
      2. (B) Print and sign the Eligibility Determination Page.
      3. (C) A copy should be scanned into the file and a copy given to the consumer;
   3. (3) Eye report must be uploaded into AWARE;
   4. (4) All other medical and psychological information used in the determination of eligibility is uploaded into AWARE (e.g., Social Security benefits letter, psychological evaluation); and

   5. (5)

      1. (A) Signed copy of the Eligibility Notification Letter uploaded into AWARE.
      2. (B) During the first six (6) months of a division counselor’s employment, each Certificate of Eligibility (DSB-8003) must be reviewed and approved by the supervisor.

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