What is the role of social services departments?
Understanding Social Services Departments in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the Department of Health Services (DHS) is a social service department providing essential support and facilities to the residents of the state. Ensuring the health and family stability of citizens is their prime responsibility. These services range from healthcare plans, food provision, welfare, and much more. Understanding the scope of their services and knowing who qualifies for what can make it easier for Wisconsin's residents to access these services readily.
Types of Services Offered
The Department of Health Services in Wisconsin offers a broad range of social services. Below are the primary areas they currently cover.
1. Healthcare Services
The DHS provides health-related services, both directly and indirectly. Direct services include running different healthcare programs such as BadgerCare Plus, SeniorCare, Wisconsin Chronic Disease Program, and Family Planning Only Services. Meanwhile, indirect services include the licensing and auditing of healthcare providers.
2. Food Assistance
The DHS offers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as Food Stamps, for individuals and families on low income who might be at risk of going without food.
3. Disability and Elderly Services
The DHS looks after citizens with chronic diseases, disabilities or those who have reached old age. Different programs support them, including Community Options Program, Family Care and IRIS.
4. Mental Health and Substance Use Services
Offering services like Community Recovery Services, Treatment and Diversion (TAD), Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) help in supporting residents struggling with mental health issues or substance abuse.
5. Child and Family Services
From offering child protection services to foster care support and adoption aid, the DHS supports children and families in need.
Who Qualifies for the Services
Each program has its eligibility criteria based on factors like income, age, medical condition, etc. For healthcare services, residents who meet the income standards of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for aid. For different mental health services, individuals diagnosed with substance use disorders or severe mental health problems qualify. Child and Family Services primarily target families and children under stress or are in challenging situations like domestic violence. The elderly and disabled qualify for disability-related services.
How to Apply
Applications for these services can be made online, over the phone, or physical visits to service departments. For online applications, Wisconsin presents ACCESS, a portal for residents to apply for health and nutrition-related public assistance.
1. Visit the ACCESS website.
2. Click the Apply for Benefits button.
3. Complete your application by providing all relevant information.
4. Submit your application.
You can track the status of your application online, and a caseworker will contact you to arrange a telephone or face-to-face interview if deemed necessary. For those unable to access online means, in-person visits or telephone applications can be made.
In conclusion, the Department of Health Services in Wisconsin offers a range of social services dedicated to the welfare of its residents. By understanding the different programs, who qualifies for them, and how to apply, Wisconsin's residents can readily access these services when needed.
