State of New Mexico | Division of Vocational Rehabilitation | Rehabilitation Services
Manual of Operating Procedures (MOP)

04 Service Status/Individualized Plan for Employment

Revised: 08/03

04-03 Options for IPE Development

There are various alternatives for developing the IPE. In order to facilitate an informed choice regarding which option is best suited to the participant's needs, the following information shall be provided to the participant, or as appropriate, the participant's representative in writing and; if appropriate, in the native language or mode of communication of the participant or the participant's representative:

• Information regarding the alternatives available regarding IPE Development. These options are listed on the Participant IPE Development Options handout and are as follows:

  • The participant writes the IPE himself/herself.

  • The participant writes the IPE with their representative.

  • The participant writes the IPE with their DVR Counselor.

  • The participant writes the IPE with an independent VR Counselor or other advocate. Generally, DVR will not cover the cost associated with payment to an independent VR Counselor for the purposes of assisting with IPE Development. Under special circumstances, DVR may cover the cost of a consultant to assist with IPE Development when determined appropriate by the Area Program Manager.

  • A combination of the above options. The eligible participant may decide to write part of the plan himself/herself or with his/her representative or advocate with assistance from the VR counselor at any time during the process.

• Information on the availability of consultation and technical assistance from the rehabilitation counselor in developing all or part of the IPE.

• Information describing the full range of components included in the IPE.

• Information describing DVR's Financial Needs Test and policy regarding comparable services and benefits.

• Information regarding participant's rights including the availability of the CAP program.

• Information regarding the choice of vendors and the procurement options available.

• Any additional information requested by the participant and/or participant's representative necessary to exercise informed choice in completing the IPE.

The VR counselor shall make the IPE and other pertinent forms available and discuss the alternatives for developing the IPE with the eligible participant or, as appropriate, the participant's representative.

A determination shall be made by the participant on which alternative is most appropriate for him/her. The requirement that the VR Counselor and/or Program Manager must approve the final IPE, regardless what option for development of the plan is chosen, should be clearly communicated to the participant or representative at that time.

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