(1) Subject to subsection (2), application for assistance under this part may be made in any local office of public assistance. The application must be presented in the manner and on the form prescribed by the department. All individuals wishing to apply must have the opportunity to do so.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), the department may designate an entity other than the local office of public assistance to determine eligibility for medicaid managed care services.