MEMORANDUM FOR DISTRICT SUPERVISORS

 

From:  Charles E. Voelker, Supervisor of Field Operations

 

Subject: VR Applicant Refusing Medical Services

 

The Mid-Missouri District recently had an individual who applied for placement services through the VR program. In the course of completing the comprehensive evaluation, the ophthalmologist provided medical information which stated that the individual had cataracts and once cataract surgery was completed, as he recommended, the individual would have normal vision.

 

When advised by the counselor as to the doctor’s findings, the applicant refused to have the surgery due to personal religious beliefs. However, the applicant continued to want placement services through the VR program.

 

I contacted Region VII RSA about this type of situation and they, in turn, contacted Washington D.C. They advised that a client has the right to refuse medical treatment (for any reason) and this refusal could not be a reason for ineligibility for VR services. Unless it could be shown that this refusal caused a "reasonable expectation" concern, i.e. potentially terminal medical condition, the IWRP could reflect placement services for an individual who refused medical care.

 

If you have questions, please advise.

CEV : j w

Reference: Regional Office Memorandum No. 87-40