Personal Adjustment Training is an array of services provided directly at the REACH Center for the Blind and through linkage with other resources in the community which takes into consideration the needs of the individual served and that person's family, the informed choices of the individual, and the unique socioeconomic, and cultural needs of those served. PAT services result in increased inclusion in community activities, increased or maintained ability to perform activities of daily living, and increased self-direction, self-determination, self-reliance, and self-esteem.
A. PAT Admission Criteria The requirements for entrance to personal adjustment training services are as follows:
1. Has VR/VRB or other 3rd party sponsorship2. Is at least 16 years of age3. Has prior medical and/or psychological evaluation appropriate to disabling condition(s)4. Is not dangerous to self and/or others5. Is free of any acute medical and or psychological conditions6. Is able to care for his/her own personal needs7. Has specifically identified functional limitations to independence and/or employment that require PAT servicesB. PAT Services PAT makes provision for but is not limited to the following:
1. Instruction in Techniques of Daily Living2. Instruction in Personal Management (planning, shopping, preparing meals)3. Communication Activities including skills such as time, telephone and money management4. Functional literacy skills, including Braille5. Education and Training Activities, including GED preparation classes6. Access to governmental and community services (including SSI/SSDI and other benefits)7. Development of work attitudes and vocational pursuits8. Adjustment to blindness, including building self-esteem.9. Orientation, Mobility and transportation skills10. Assistive technology, including computer training12. Leisure or Recreation13. Health and wellness promotion14. Specialized communication services for individuals with dual sensory impairments It is not required that every person served receives all the services available. Each individual receives those services that will help meet his/her goals. The time spent in adjustment services is based on the time necessary to accomplish the individual's goals. The progress of each client is monitored by the Program Manager to ensure timely progress.C. PAT Techniques The provision of PAT services is based on the individual client's needs and choices. They are documented in such a way that uniform application is ensured. This includes a curriculum guide and specific instructional methods. (Reference: PAT Curricula Book.) Examples of adjustment techniques include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Classroom Instructional Activities2. One-on-one contacts with program manager and other staff3. Individual/Group activities, including community outingsD. Individualized Personal Adjustment Training Plan (IAP) Each client participates in the development of his/her individual adjustment plan. The plan is based on consideration of the individual's goals, strengths, capabilities, and preferences and is relevant to maximum participation in environments of their choice. The IAP includes the following:
1. Objectives (stated in observable, measurable terms) which are considered necessary to attain the person's vocational objectives2. Statements of expected outcomes3. Time intervals for achieving outcomes4. Assignments or specific instructional techniques and methods consistent with the adjustment goals5. Identification of specialized needs and/or services6. Specific persons to be involved in the plan and evidence that these individuals are aware of their role in the plan (their signature or initials suffice for documentation)7. Reviews to be conducted at least monthly with modifications made as necessaryE. PAT Progress Staffings and Reports Staffings are held at least monthly. Attendance at this staffing includes the person served, those instructors involved in the person's program of services, the person's Program Manager and the Vocational Evaluator, if appropriate. These staffings address the client's progress toward his/her program objectives, point out any amendments necessary, and justify recommendations regarding continuation of his/her program. A separate memo is not required to document staffings, but staffing information is included in the progress report to the referring counselor. (Reference: Blank Forms Book.) This report is to be completed and disseminated to the appropriate parties within 10 working days following a staffing.
F. PAT Final Staffing A staffing is held prior to the completion of PAT services. This staffing addresses the results of PAT services and provides recommendations for the future (i.e., information about other agencies or services and specific information about equipment that may be beneficial for the individual. If the referring counselor is not present, a copy of the original Counselor Correspondence Form is sent to the referring counselor notifying date of termination.
G. PAT Exit Criteria A client may exit PAT services for any one of the following reasons:
1. Completion of all the goals on the IAP2. Entrance into employment3. Entrance into training (College or Skills training)4. Client exits the program of his/her own accord prior to completion of the IAP5. Client fails to carry out his/her assigned responsibilities in the IAP6. Client develops an acute medical and/or psychological condition7. Client develops behaviors that pose a danger to self or others32 Miss. Code. R. § 24-15.01