AFH COUNCIL UPDATES

August 15th, 2025

Message From Executive Director

Happy Friday AFH Friends and Supporters!

Our thanks to all who showed for a full Kent Chapter meeting last Friday – and wonderful presentation (and lunch sponsorship) by Manny Eco on Bathroom remodeling opportunities for AFH owners.

Just a few quick highlights from “Olympia’s capital hill.”

• This week, Cascade PBS ran with a compelling story on the impacts of the Meaningful Day program cuts. More follow-up news stories are expected as the press is reaching out to us. Read the story below.

• We continue our preparations for the Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) hearing we have set in November on our Unfair Labor Practice complaint regarding MCO payment noncompliance and our Thurston County Superior Court lawsuit seeking to stop cuts to Meaningful Day.

• The AFHC recently signed in support of King County’s energy grant proposal to assist and support funding to AFHs that need weatherization work. See our letter here.

• Our Government Relations and Marketing team enjoyed an enlightening summer tour of the Capital and grounds, including the Legislative Building and Temple of Justice. Thanks so much team – and catch our photos on our Facebook page!

• And one of my two fur kids celebrated 2 years of age after our Spokane Chapter Meeting visit – Here’s Devon and I at Manito Park (thanks AWHC Spokane Chapter Coordinator and Board Secretary Kim Ward for the suggestion!).

Thank you for your selfless devotion to the protection and support of vulnerable adults in Adult Family Homes!

Best, Bob

Do you know a caregiver whose kindness, dedication, and heart have made a lasting difference? Now’s your chance to honor them! In celebration of Adult Family Home Month this September, we’re proud to host the 2025 Exceptional Caregiver Award—shining a light on those who go above and beyond every day.

Submit your nomination by August 28 and share the story that shows why they’re truly extraordinary. Caregivers will be recognized at our September award ceremony, with the winner honored at our Fall Conference. We highly encourage you to share the nomination link with families and friends. Let’s give these remarkable individuals the recognition they deserve.

Need help with CBHS services?

Do you have questions about how to bill for Community Behavioral Health Support (CBHS) services? Or maybe questions about how to contract with the managed care organizations (MCO). Are you having trouble and not sure where to turn for help?

The Health Care Authority (HCA) invites Adult Family Homes providing Community Behavioral Health Support services to join HCA, DSHS, and the managed care organizations every Monday from 8:00–8:30 AM. In addition, HCA offers ProviderOne Application training for Adult Family Homes every Tuesday from 2:30–3:30 PM.

This call provides time to ask questions, share your concerns and experiences working with CBHS, and make connections to resolve issues.

Fraud Alert: Scammers Impersonating Office of Health Professions Staff

The Washington State Department of Health is warning licensed professionals to watch out for a new wave of scams. These scammers pretend to be DOH staff—sometimes even using real employee names or email addresses that look almost correct—to trick people into giving personal information, sending money, or clicking dangerous links. They may also call, text, or send letters, often threatening to suspend your license if you don’t act immediately. Remember: DOH will never demand payment over the phone or pressure you to respond right away. If something feels off, hang up or delete the message, and call the Office of Health Professions directly at 360-236-4700 to check. Scammers have also posed as the Pharmacy Commission, DEA, or FBI, so always take a moment to verify before you respond.

AFHC Trainings and Events

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P: 1.360.754.3329   |   F: 1.360.943.6653   |   T: 1.888.439.8999

3309 Capitol Blvd. SW, Tumwater, WA 98501