(a) VRD conducts an annual comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of the state's vocational rehabilitation program in achieving:      
        (1) service goals and priorities established in the state plan and annual amendments to the state plan; and       
        (2) compliance with the performance accountability measures established by the Act.       
      (b) The evaluation measures the adequacy of VRD performance in providing vocational rehabilitation services, especially to individuals with the most significant disabilities, considering the state's vocational rehabilitation program financial resources. The evaluation has the following minimum objectives:      
        (1) to ensure that the rehabilitation program is serving the target population and that the services are provided in an equitable manner;       
        (2) to ensure that customers are placed in gainful employment suitable to their capabilities, interests, and informed choice;       
        (3) to measure the extent to which undue delays are avoided in providing customers with services;       
        (4) to ensure that available resources are used effectively to achieve maximum efficiency;       
        (5) to ensure that VR counselors maintain manageable-sized caseloads and provide timely and adequate services to individual customers;       
        (6) to ensure that customers retain the benefits obtained from the rehabilitation process;       
        (7) to ensure that the need for post-employment services is satisfied;       
        (8) to identify reasons why customers are not successfully rehabilitated; and       
        (9) to ensure that the customer is satisfied with the individualized plan for employment.       
     Source Note:        The provisions of this §856.81 adopted to be effective December 10, 2012, 37 TexReg 9651; duplicated effective September 1, 2016, as published in the Texas Register September 2, 2016, 41 TexReg 6773; amended to be effective November 8, 2017, 42 TexReg 6195