R986-700-717. Child Care for Children With Disabilities or Special Needs

  (1) The Department will fund child care for children with disabilities or special needs at a higher rate if the child has a physical, social, or mental condition or special health care need that requires;

  (a) an increase in the amount of care or supervision and/or

  (b) special care, which includes but is not limited to the use of special equipment, assistance with movement, feeding, toileting or the administration of medications that require specialized procedures.

  (2) To be eligible under this section, the client must submit a statement from one of the professionals listed in rule R986-700-709(3)(b)(ii) or one of the following documenting the child's disability and special child care needs;

  (a) Social Security Administration showing that the child is a SSI recipient,

  (b) Division of Services for People with Disabilities,

  (c) Division of Mental Health,

  (d) State Office of Education,

  (e) Baby Watch, Early Intervention Program, or

  (f) by submitting a written statement from:

  (i) a licensed medical doctor;

  (ii) a licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse;

  (iii) a licensed Physician's Assistant;

  (iv) a licensed or certified Psychologist.

  (3) Verification to support that the child is disabled and has a special need must be dated and signed by the preparer and include the following;

  (a) the child's name,

  (b) a description of the child's disability, and

  (c) the special provisions that justify a higher payment rate.

  (4) The Department may require additional information and may deny requests if adequate or complete information or justification is not provided.

  (5) The higher rate is available through the month the child turns 18 years of age.

  (6) Clients qualify for child care under this section if the household is at or below 85% of the state median income.

  (7) The higher rate in effect for each child care category is available at any Department office.