1. Program Definition and Services 

Supported employment in Michigan is designed to assist individuals with significant disabilities in obtaining and maintaining competitive employment in integrated settings. Services include job development, job placement, job coaching, and ongoing support to ensure job retention. These services are often funded through Medicaid waivers and programs like the §1915(i) State Plan Amendment for home and community-based services 

2. Regulations 

Key regulations governing supported employment include: 

• Rehabilitation Act Amendments: Define supported employment as competitive employment with ongoing support services for individuals with significant disabilities 

• Medicaid Regulations: Services must comply with Medicaid standards for reimbursement, including the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule 

• HCBS Final Rule: Ensures that settings are integrated into the community, providing choice and autonomy for beneficiaries. 

3. Licensing or Certification 

To operate as a supported employment provider, you typically need to be certified or contracted with relevant state agencies, such as Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), and enrolled as a Medicaid provider. Certification may also be required for specific services or staff qualifications. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) oversees Medicaid-funded services, while Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), part of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, administers vocational rehabilitation services. 

5. Application Process 

The application process involves enrolling as a Medicaid provider through the CHAMPS (Community Health Automated Medicaid Processing System) online platform. For vocational rehabilitation services, providers may need to work with MRS by completing the MRS Application for Vocational and Employment Services (MRS-2910). 

6. Required Documentation 

• Business Registration Documents: Proof of business registration in Michigan. 

• Insurance and Liability Coverage: Proof of adequate insurance coverage. 

• Staff Qualifications: Documentation of staff qualifications, including training records. 

• Medicaid Enrollment Forms: Completed forms for Medicaid provider enrollment. 

• MRS Application: Completed MRS-2910 application for vocational services. 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The approval timeline varies depending on the completeness of the application and specific requirements. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-license application process, but potential providers should familiarize themselves with state regulations and requirements before applying. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly mandated as a pre-application requirement, providers must ensure their staff are trained in supported employment principles, including job coaching and ongoing support services. Training may be provided through partnerships with organizations like Michigan Works and MRS 

10. Additional Notes 

• Integration with Mental Health Services: Supported employment services often integrate with mental health treatment, such as the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model 

• Community Partnerships: Providers may work with local employers and community organizations to facilitate job placements and ongoing support