Michigan Family Independence Program (FIP) clients are expected to take part in PATH employment activities unless deferred. When a client reports an illness or incapacity, MDHHS asks a qualified medical professional to complete the DHS-54A, stating the incapacity, how long it will last, work limitations and any reasonable accommodation needed. The specialist uses it to defer or adjust PATH participation.
An M.D. or D.O., as listed on the form, completes it after the client identification section. The companion DHS-54E can also be completed by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
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Medical Needs
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For a short-term incapacity expected to last less than three months, MDHHS can defer the client from PATH for up to three months, setting the medical review date accordingly. Conditions lasting more than 90 days go through the Disability Determination Service instead.
Both verify a FIP client's incapacity for PATH. Michigan's FIP manual notes that a nurse practitioner or physician assistant can complete the DHS-54E, Medical Needs-PATH, while the DHS-54A is completed by a qualified medical professional listed on the form. For short-term incapacity, another written statement from an M.D., D.O., P.A. or N.P. is also accepted.