Physical and mental restoration services

(a) The treatment of disability is not the primary focus of the bureau of rehabilitation services program. Physical and mental restoration services are provided only insofar as the bureau determines they will benefit the client in removing or adjusting to barriers to an employment outcome. Disabling conditions that do not or are not expected to adversely affect the attainment of the employment outcome are not to be remediated through the provision of physical or mental services by the bureau. (b) Restoration services provided by the bureau shall, within a reasonable period of time, be expected to correct or modify substantially an impairment which constitutes a substantial impediment to employment. In estimating "a reasonable period of time", the following factors shall be considered: (1) the nature of the disability; (2) prognosis with respect to life expectancy; (3) employment potential, and; (4) other contributing factors such as age, work and premorbid personality. In general, restoration services provided by the bureau should not exceed six months in duration. (c) Periodic evaluations of progress shall be made, at least every 90 days, and further decision made at those times. (d) The bureau may seek consultation from a bureau medical consultant or other appropriate expert, particularly when any unusual, non-traditional, long-term or very costly procedure is being discussed, recommended or seriously considered for a client. (e) Physical and mental restoration services may include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) corrective surgery or therapeutic treatment of a mental or physical impairment; (2) diagnosis for mental or emotional disorders by a physician skilled in the diagnosis of such disorders or by a licensed psychologist; (3) treatment of mental or emotional disorders by a physician skilled in the treatment of such disorders, a psychologist, or social worker who is licensed in the state of Connecticut; (4) dentistry; (5) nursing services; (6) necessary hospitalization (either inpatient or outpatient care) in connection with surgery or treatment and clinic services; (7) drugs and supplies; (8) prosthetic, orthotic or other assistive devices essential to obtaining or retaining employment; (9) eyeglasses and visual services, including visual training and the examination and services necessary for the prescription and provision of eyeglasses, contact lenses, microscopic lenses, telescopic lenses and other special visual aids as prescribed by a physician skilled in diseases of the eye or by an optometrist, as appropriate; (10) podiatry; (11) physical therapy; (12) occupational therapy; (13) speech or hearing therapy; (14) mental health services; (15) treatment of either acute or chronic medical complications and emergencies which are associated with or arise out of the provision of physical and mental restoration services, or are inherent in the condition under treatment; (16) special services for the treatment of individuals with end-stage renal disease, including transplantation, dialysis, artificial kidneys, and supplies; (17) other medical or medically related rehabilitation services. (f) Physical or mental restoration services may be provided to the extent that financial support is not available from a source (such as health insurance of the individual or through comparable services and benefits) other than the bureau.