Several counties have expressed a concern regarding the inability of a client to obtain employment due to certain medical conditions in which the expense cannot be covered using TANF funds.  For example, some clients need extensive dental work which we have not been able to provide as a supportive service due to the prohibition on using TANF funds for medical services.  Because counties have expressed this as a real need to help those clients become employed, limited state funds have been designated for this purpose. To ensure that only state funds are used, a specific WISE code has been added.

Effective immediately, state funds may be used to pay for dental services such as fillings, extractions, and root canals. State funds may also be used to pay for eye exams and to obtain corrective lenses or contacts. The case manager must determine that the service is needed in order for the client to engage in employment. 

The code ST (State Medical) will be used to authorize these services.

Please note that eye glasses, dentures and employee required exams such as drug testing and physicals are currently paid through WISE using the code MS (Medical Services).  Case Managers will continue using this code for these services.

Inquiries to:    Paula Gentry, TEA Unit, 682-8182

                        Renee Green, TEA Unit, 682-8266

                        Donna Roshell, TEA Unit, 682-8250

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