Getting Ready for WIC EBT-prior to writing the PAPDFind out lessons learnedObtain Retailer and State SupportManagement Information System

considerationsDetermine how you will Manage the

EBT project

Minnesota WIC120,000 WIC participants a monthAbout 1000 retail and 100 pharmacy stores200 WIC Clinics54 grantees

Tribal organizationsCommunity Health BoardsNonprofits

Largest agency serves over 20,000 participants/month

Smallest agency serves about 30 participants/month

Geographically large

Find Out Lessons Learned

Attended numerous EBT conferencesVisited states that have implemented

EBTReviewed other states planning

documents and activitiesReview the FNS web-site

Obtain Retailer and State Support

Met with Minnesota Grocers Association

Met with Minnesota SNAP EBT representatives

Met with MDH LeadershipPresented at Local Public Health

AssociationMet with WIC Advisory Group

Obtain IT Support-Management Information System

Transferred and implemented SPIRIT in 2011Assessed WIC clinic telecommunication

capabilities to ensure capacity for an online MIS

Currently participating in the SPIRIT Users Group EBT Task force Universal Interface design

Determine How you Will Manage EBT Project

Hire project managerIdentify WIC staff who can devote

significant time to the project

Focus on your States Particular NeedsOn-line or Smart Card optionsState MIS gap analysis: Need Robust

Information system-replace/upgrade MIS with EBT or prior

Are there specific or unique risks to your State agency?

Contact InformationCarol Rowe, MS, RDN, LNMDH WIC Operations Unit Supervisor (651) 201-3632 Carol.Rowe@state.mn.us