1. Getting Ready for WIC EBT-prior to writing the PAPD Find out lessons learned Obtain Retailer and State Support Management Information System considerations Determine how you will Manage the EBT project

2. Minnesota WIC 120,000 WIC participants a month About 1000 retail and 100 pharmacy stores 200 WIC Clinics 54 grantees Tribal organizations Community Health Boards Nonprofits Largest agency serves over 20,000 participants/month Smallest agency serves about 30 participants/month Geographically large

3.  Find Out Lessons Learned  Attended numerous EBT conferences  Visited states that have implemented EBT  Reviewed other states planning documents and activities  Review the FNS web-site

4.  Obtain Retailer and State Support  Met with Minnesota Grocers Association  Met with Minnesota SNAP EBT representatives  Met with MDH Leadership  Presented at Local Public Health Association  Met with WIC Advisory Group

5.  Obtain IT Support-Management Information System  Transferred and implemented SPIRIT in 2011  Assessed WIC clinic telecommunication capabilities to ensure capacity for an online MIS  Currently participating in the SPIRIT Users Group EBT Task force Universal Interface design

6.  Determine How you Will Manage EBT Project  Hire project manager  Identify WIC staff who can devote significant time to the project

7. Focus on your States Particular Needs On-line or Smart Card options State MIS gap analysis: Need Robust Information system-replace/upgrade MIS with EBT or prior Are there specific or unique risks to your State agency?

8. Contact Information Carol Rowe, MS, RDN, LN MDH WIC Operations Unit Supervisor (651) 201-3632 Carol.Rowe@state.mn.usCarol.Rowe@state.mn.us