Join Us for a Webinar Reviewing New WAC 388-76 Updates
On June 6, 2023, the Department of Social and Health Services (department) filed a CR-103P (permanent rule) amending chapter 388-76 of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) of the adult family home licensing rules. This rulemaking incorporates ESHB 1023, 2020 Regular Session, into the rules, allowing certain adult family home providers to increase their capacity from […]
LAST CHANCE: Submit Your AFH Video
Showcasing Heartwarming Stories Dear Providers, In May the Governor signed a proclamation declaring September as “Adult Family Home Month.” This acknowledgment is a testament to the incredible work each one of you do as AFH owners and your invaluable contribution to the well-being of vulnerable adults in Washington state. We want to extend our heartfelt […]
Public Health Alert: Heat Wave
The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning from Monday (8/14) through at least Wednesday (8/16). Temperatures are expected to reach from the upper 80s through the mid 90s across King County. Night time temperatures may remain very warm in some parts of the county. Without cooling at night, there is more risk of […]
New Specialty AFH Contract from the Developmental Disabilities Administration
On August 7, 2023, the Adult Family Home Council and the State of Washington entered into an agreement to launch a pilot program. The program will support adult family homes who are exclusively serving residents with developmental or intellectual disabilities (DD/ID). Advocates for the DD/ID community have been working toward this goal for nearly 10 […]
Medical Test Site Waiver Regulatory Requirements
As of July 1, 2023 RCS Licensors will be looking to see if you have a Medical Test Site Waiver if you are doing any medical testing for your residents. Certain types of medical testing require a state Medical Test Site Waiver (MTSW) license. One type of activity requiring a MTSW license is testing residents […]
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: EXCEPTIONAL CAREGIVER AWARD
The nomination period for the AFH Council 2023 Exceptional Caregiver award is now officially open, and we encourage all AFH providers, residents, their families, and/or colleagues to participate and nominate an exceptional caregiver. This award is designed to honor and celebrate the remarkable dedication, compassion, and selflessness of caregivers working tirelessly in adult family homes. […]
Q&A Response from RCS-AFH Provider Forum 5/17/2023
Many of you had questions for RCS leadership during the May 2023 RCS-AFH Provider Forum. Here are the answers to your questions. Q1. What is the definition of imminent harm that would require a QIP to call the hotline? We are mandated reporters required to report abuse, neglect, exploitation & abandonment per RCW 74.34. Imminent […]
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
2023 AFH Council Spring Conference Advocacy Results Dear Providers, This year’s spring conference served as a highly valuable platform, fostering meaningful discussions on a range of issues impacting providers. The advocacy segment of the conference began with a comprehensive review of the various ways the Council engages in advocating for providers, including through collective bargaining, […]
Home Care Aide Facility Instructors Information Gathering
Home Care Aide Instructors – you are invited to join The Department of Health (DOH) in an important conversation that affects you! What: Facility Training Program Information Gathering When/Where: August 17, 2023 at 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) / Zoom meeting link below Why: The Department of Health is looking for input from Washington […]
New Bonus and Lump Sum Reporting
According to House Bill 1262, Washington State employers will have additional income reporting requirements effective July 23. 2023. On that date, employers are required to report bonuses and lump sum payments of over $500 to the Division of Child Support (DCS) before being paid to the employee. If a payment amount is unknown or is less […]
Training Opportunity for AFH Owners and Resident Managers
Home and Community Services (HCS) has created a series of voluntary trainings for AFH Providers who work with Medicaid-eligible clients. The trainings are presented by a panel of HCS Subject Matter Experts and will offer information, resources, and support. The free courses will be available each quarter on different subjects of interest and will offer […]
Medicaid Rates Increase July 1st
Effective July 1st, 2023, adult family homes Medicaid rates will be increasing. The rate change will vary depending on the classification level, AFH specialty contract, and the county of the home. All rate changes can be found on the adult family home Council website at this link: 2023-25-CBA-Upcoming-Increases.pdf (adultfamilyhomecouncil.org) Rate increases should take place automatically […]
