The Virginia WIC 395 form is used by healthcare professionals to request special food prescriptions for participants of the Virginia Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. This includes special formulas, nutritionals, and/or modified food benefits for infants, children, and women with medical conditions that require them. The form enables participants to receive appropriate supplemental foods alongside their WIC benefits.
The Virginia WIC program primarily offers Similac Advance and Similac Soy Isomil formulas due to a special pricing contract with Abbott Nutrition. These options are promoted as part of the program's efforts to encourage breastfeeding but provide formula options for those who need them.
No, due to the contract with Abbott Nutrition, Virginia WIC cannot provide standard infant formulas made by other manufacturers such as Mead Johnson (Enfamil), Nestle (Gerber Good Start), or generic/store brands.
If a Virginia WIC participant requires an alternative due to lactose sensitivity, digestive issues, or another medical condition, healthcare professionals can request alternative formulas or nutritionals by completing the WIC-395 form. This includes options like Similac Sensitive and Total Comfort powders. For exempt infant formulas or special nutritionals that are not standardly provided, the form allows for specification of product name, form, diagnosis, and required calorie concentration.
A new WIC-395 form is required at each subsequent WIC certification appointment or at the end of the specified duration of the special food prescription, whichever comes first. Additionally, a new form must be submitted for any requested changes to the food prescription.
Can WIC supplemental foods be modified based on a participant's medical needs?
Yes, the WIC-395 form provides options to modify the issuance of WIC supplemental foods based on the medical needs of the participant. These modifications can include providing formula only, omitting certain food groups like infant cereal or fruits and vegetables, and adjusting supplemental foods for children and women.
The WIC-395 form must be completed and signed by a healthcare professional who is authorized under state law to write medical prescriptions. This ensures that all requests for special food prescriptions are based on medical needs and adhere to Virginia WIC policies and procedures.