Updates from LARA: Licensure Numbers Changing as State Moves to New Online System

Updates from LARA: Licensure Numbers Changing as State Moves to New Online System

In early July, licensed social workers (both limited and fully licensed) began receiving postcards in the mail notifying them of a new license number being issued (please see the template letter below). The license numbers did change in order to accommodate the new licensing database LARA is moving to later this year, MiPLUS. Social work is one of the last health professions to move into the MiPlus system.

• Applicants to apply online, track the status of their application, and receive electronic notifications
• Licensees will be able to renew and modify their existing licensing information
• Verify the status of a licensed professional
• File a complaint against a licensed professional or report a change in staff privileges

Learn more about MiPLUS at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600_92411---,00.html.

NASW-Michigan reached out to LARA to get some of the questions we have been receiving answered:

Will I get a new physical license in the mail?
Yes. All licensees will also be receiving a new license in the mail later this summer and into the fall.

If I have a limited license and am already scheduled to take the ASWB exam, do I need to contact my testing site to update them with my new license number?
No.This change does not impact those individuals who were made eligible with the ASWB to take the exam.

Will insurances and/or billers be notified of the new license numbers?
No. Individual social workers should contact their specific billers and insurance panels to make them aware of the upcoming changes.

When will social workers be officially moved to the MiPLUS system?
The go live date with the new database is set for October 5, 2021. Leading up to that date, LARA will be preparing Licensing Guides and “How to” guides to assist licensee’s and new applicants with the system. For previous professions, LARA created nice step by step processes which included pictures to help with this change.

Sample letter sent to all licensees