Current through Register Vol. 39, No. 6, September 16, 2024
(a) Interpreters
may be provided for deaf persons to enable them to communicate their needs and
to utilize and benefit from services and community resources that are otherwise
unavailable to them because of communication problems.
(1) Interpreter service is provided for
individuals who have a hearing impairment that necessitates reliance upon the
use of sign language for communication.
(2) Selection of an interpreter is based on
the client's need and the availability of individuals who can provide
interpreter services.
(3) Prior to
the provision of the service, a vendor agreement must be made covering the
duties of the provider and the rate of pay. The amount of time provided is
based on the recipient's needs; however, if the client will need an on-going or
extended period of service, prior approval may be given but not to exceed the
individual's period of eligibility.
(4) Allowable Costs and Reimbursement.
Maximum rates have been set by the North Carolina Social Services Commission
for purchase of interpreters for deaf persons under vendor agreements.
Information regarding maximum rates is contained in policy material issued by
the division and is available in accordance with
10A NCAC
71R .0302. When included in a vendor purchase
agreement, payment may also be made for round trip travel by the interpreter
between his work station and the deaf person needing services. Reimbursement
for such travel payment is available up to the state's maximum travel allowance
per vehicle mile for automobile expenses.
(b) Telephones may be provided when not
otherwise available for aging, disabled or handicapped individuals who are
alone and homebound, or who have a health or medical condition which
necessitates ready access to or frequent use of a telephone in their own home.
(1) Telephones that adequately meet the needs
of individuals at the lowest cost are sufficient.
(2) Installation costs, monthly costs or both
may be provided, according to the individual's need.
(3) Long distance calls and toll charges
require prior approval by the county department of social services or other
provider agency.
Authority
G.S.
143B-153;
Eff. July 1,
1984;
Amended Eff. July 1, 1990;
Pursuant to
G.S.
150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without
substantive public interest Eff. May 20,
2017.
