BSWD Processes
We are hoping to get some feedback on how other institutions handle a few things in the context of BSWD
1) Rationales
We have found that when an application is denied by our office the ASO will continue to "tweak" the rationale until it is acceptable. This has been leading to a lot of back and forth between our offices and is leading to questions about the student's true need for items (this is often in the context of computers/headphones/office equipment etc.)
Do you allow for this feedback loop or are decisions final, based on the initial application submitted?
2) Insurance
The BSWD manual indicates that student's should be taken at their word when indicating that they do not have coverage for a service/item. However, we know the coverages available through our student insurance plans, and if a student were to opt-out, they must show proof of other insurance.
How does your institution handle situations were students state that they do not have coverage but we know that it is available to them?
Example, students have $300 in coverage for counselling and submits a quote for $1000. Would you approve them for $700?
3) Quotes
We have been receiving an increasing number of applications for services where the quote provided far exceeds the term/cap. For example, a student submitted a quote for an weekly counselling session for 1 hour for 52 weeks.
Would your office require the student to provide the quote for the period that only covers the term for which funding is being requested?
Any feedback on the above points is greatly appreciated!
Hi Lindsay,
Attending the BSWD working group meetings is a great way to learn how other institutions handle these types of issues.
With respect to your question 1. Clear guidelines have to be established to prevent the back and forth. Make sure the Accessibility office has a copy of the manual to follow and meet with them to discuss scenarios that may be unacceptable. Financial aid does not determine if a student needs something for their disability - the Accessibility office determines this. Ensure students who are eligible for BSWD funding receive it.
2. Ensure students who are eligible for BSWD funding receive it. Collect the information necessary to properly assess a file. If a student is unaware of their insurance coverage, you may want to inform them of that, allocate the difference and have them submit denial notification from the insurance company to allocate up to the requested amount.
3. BSWD funding is provided to students for their period of study. If the student studies for 34 weeks during the fall and winter semesters, they would be provided with 34 hours of counselling.