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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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A. Physician Assistants B. Nurse Practitioners C. Psychologists D. Psychiatrists E. Physical Therapists F. Other professionals qualified to make a clinical diagnosis

The medical incapacity is subject to reevaluation at intervals that are specific to each recipient's circumstances, at a minimum, at annual redetermination. This interval is dependent on what has been determined by the doctor or other health professional and what is documented on the DSS Form 1247, Medical Release/Physician's Statement, or other verification which is completed and signed by a physician or other health professional.

NOTE: Support services funds can be used to pay to have medical forms completed for participants in the State program once they have been determined eligible and have been participating in the CARES Program.

2. CARES Assessment Process The Family Plan will be completed for the families in the CARES Program. It will be an overall picture of the strengths, barriers and needs within a family unit. The Family Plan includes:

1. DSS Form 1257, TANF Family Success Assessment (TFSA); and 2. DSS Form 1022, Individual Employment Plan (IEP) (May not be mandatory for all CARES participants)

The client assessment process is the first step for the client after case approval because it is needed to gather information necessary for the development of the Family Plan. This process should be completed within 30 days after case approval. (See 23.2.7)

The client assessment will involve gathering and analyzing information on external and internal factors that affect the client to determine the client’s current level of employability and assess the needs of the family.

The assessment process is used to:

A. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the participant B. Identify needed services C. Develop an appropriate Family Plan for the participant and other family members. 3. Elements of Assessment The assessment consists of the following:

A. An orientation of the CARES Program; B. DSS Form 1257, TANF Family Success Assessment (TFSA); and