5.5.8 When a Formal Assessment is Not Completed

The participant’s self-report of a barrier, or a service provider’s statement as to a participant's the inability to participate which does not meet the definition of a formal assessment, is not sufficient by itself to confirm the existence of a barrier.

However, this information must be considered as part of the process of assessing for barriers to participation in W-2 Wisconsin Works or employment. The agency must use this information in conjunction with a formal assessment and other substantiating information (e.g., behavioral cues, low TABE Test of Adult Basic Education score, pattern of nonparticipation without good cause) to confirm the existence of a barrier.

EXAMPLE : Jean submits an application for W-2. During the initial informal assessment meeting, Jean explains that she cannot engage in any type of W-2 activities because she has severe back pain. The FEP explains to Jean that a formal assessment is needed in order to fully understand how Jean’s medical condition affects her ability to participate in W-2.

Together, the FEP and Jean review the W-2 Formal Assessment Agreement and Jean indicates at the bottom of the agreement that she will obtain a formal assessment. The FEP gives Jean the Medical Examination & Capacity form (2012) to bring to her physician and follows up with a phone call to Jean’s physician to explain what the form is and why a full formal assessment is needed.

Meanwhile, the FEP has all of the needed documentation and verification to determine eligibility for W-2 and places Jean in a W-2 T W-2 Transition while waiting for the results of the formal assessment.