R 395.73 Comparable benefits and services in the IPE.

Rule 23. (1) If comparable services and benefits are available to the individual, the services and benefits must be utilized to meet, in whole or part, the cost of vocational rehabilitation services. (2) If comparable services or benefits exist under any other program, but are not available to the individual at the time needed to satisfy the rehabilitation objectives in the individual’s IPE, MRS shall provide vocational rehabilitation services until those comparable services and benefits become available. (3) The utilization of comparable services and benefits do not apply in the following situations: (a) If the determination of the availability could delay or interrupt the progress of the individual toward achieving the employment outcome identified in the individualized plan for employment. (b) If the determination of the availability would delay the provision of vocational rehabilitation to any individual who is at extreme medical risk, based on medical evidence provided by an appropriate qualified medical professional. (c) If an immediate job placement would be lost due to a delay in the provision of comparable benefits. (4) The following categories of service are exempt from a determination of the availability of comparable services and benefits: (a) Assessment for determining eligibility, priority for services, and vocational rehabilitation needs. (b) Vocational rehabilitation counseling, guidance, and referral services. (c) Vocational and other training services, such as personal and vocational adjustment services, books, tools, and other training material not associated with training in an institute of higher education, that are defined as colleges and universities, community and junior colleges, vocational and technical schools or institutes, and hospital schools of nursing. (d) Awards and scholarships based on merit. (e) Rehabilitation technology services, including vehicle modifications. (f) Placement services.