SECTION 612:10-9-5. Vocational rehabilitation

  The consumer can receive the services of the Instructional Services program while being served through the Vocational Rehabilitation counseling program. The staff member will provide comprehensive instructional services necessary for the consumer to meet the employment goal.

(1)   Referral from rehabilitation counselor. Consumers who are legally blind or severely visually impaired receiving services through a rehabilitation counselor will be referred for Rehabilitation Teaching and Orientation & Mobility (O & M) services. Through the diagnosis and evaluation process the staff member gathers information to aid in determining needs for instructional services.

(2)   Rehabilitation teaching services in joint cases. Important services provided by the teacher include evaluation and training in areas related to employment which include but are not limited to consumer and family adjustment to blindness, competence in communication, job readiness skills, personal management, home management, and basic orientation to immediate surroundings to facilitate safe mobility at home and work.

(3)   Orientation and Mobility referral for joint cases. Important services provided by the O & M Specialist include, but are not limited to, evaluation and training for safe travel in the workplace, cane travel, preparation for dog guide, and local transportation usage.

(4)   Joint service status. When it is determined a consumer can benefit from both instructional and counseling services the instructional staff and counselor, through consultation with each other and the consumer, will each develop a program of services. During the provision of services, the counselor and instructional staff will share pertinent information including narrative recording, through regular contact and case staffing. The formation of the instructional service plan should include objectives and services to be provided.

(5)   Closing joint cases. When preparing a joint case for closure, the instructional staff and counselor will consult one another to determine readiness for closure.

[Source: Added at 37 Ok Reg 2135, eff 9-11-20]