1. (a) Vision assessments for eligibility.

   1. (1) For consumers who do not have a recent eye report, the Division of State Services for the Blind may pay for the consumer to receive an assessment to determine eligibility for services.
   2. (2) This assessment must be provided by a certified ophthalmologist or optometrist.

2. (b) Low vision assessments.

   1. (1) This service is provided to enable persons who can benefit from low vision aids to utilize magnification devices since these devices can be of invaluable assistance in maintaining independence.

   2. (2)

      1. (A) When appropriate, the VR counselor will provide a low vision assessment.
      2. (B) This assessment is to aid the VR counselor and consumer in determining if the consumer will need a more thorough assessment by a low vision specialist.

   3. (3)

      1. (A) The division may pay for a consumer to receive an assessment by a low vision specialist in order to determine the consumer’s need for low vision aids.
      2. (B) See subsection (a) of this section.
      3. (C) This assessment may only be conducted as part of the IPE.
   4. (4) A low vision specialist must evaluate the consumer and a recommendation obtained before the division can purchase a closed-circuit television (CCTV).

3. (c) Surgical or therapeutic treatments.

   1. (1)

      1. (A) Surgical or therapeutic treatments to prevent, correct, or modify disabling eye conditions.
      2. (B) This service would include prescription optical devices.
      3. (C) However, nonprescription optical aids and devices should be under assistive technology, 25 CAR § 1-129.

   2. (2)

      1. (A) These services are provided to enable a consumer to become self-sufficient in the home and community by reducing or eliminating functional limitations imposed by the disabling condition, providing greater opportunity for the consumer to live more independently.
      2. (B) Prior to the provision of any surgical or therapeutic services, the VR counselor must determine if a comparable service or benefit is available to provide such services or cover a portion or total cost thereof.

   3. (3)

      1. (A) The division may pay for prescriptions or injections related to these procedures but for no longer than sixty (60) days.
      2. (B) This time frame should be used to assist the consumer to find alternative methods of payment assistance.

Codification Notes: “IPE” means individualized plan for elders. "VR" means vocational rehabilitation.