| | AFH COUNCIL UPDATES March 13th, 2026 |
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| | Executive Director Message |
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| | Dear Members, They say that “March comes in like a lion ….” – and this year has had quite the roaring start to our busy AFHC month. Across the Council’s work this month, from advocacy at the Capitol to regulatory engagement with state agencies, our focus remains the same: supporting Adult Family Home providers and ensuring the voices of small residential providers are heard clearly in Olympia. AFHC Lobby Day at the Capitol One of the highlights of the month was our AFHC Lobby Day, where providers from across the state gathered in Olympia to meet with legislators and discuss issues affecting Adult Family Homes and the residents we serve. The morning included shared presentations and discussion, followed by afternoon meetings with legislators for members who preregistered. Special thanks go to Advocacy Assistant Suaad Laari, who led the coordination of our event and member visits, and to the Council’s Lobbyist, Amina Teouri, who prepared excellent messaging and briefing materials for guidance to our providers. Our staff team also worked many hours preparing packets, moving food and event items, and organizing logistics. We were grateful to gather again in the Columbia Room and to host members from across Washington who came to share their experiences directly with lawmakers. HCA’s Clearinghouse The Washington State Health Care Authority has begun implementing a new Adult Family Home clearinghouse process designed to simplify how AFHs enroll and work with Medicaid managed care organizations. The clearinghouse, developed in partnership with Community Health Plan of Washington, aims to streamline contracting and reduce administrative complexity for providers. The AFHC has and will continue to share training sessions for using the Clearinghouse, FAQs, and one-on-one support opportunities to help members understand how the process works and how to participate. IBSS and Medicaid Program Changes Members have raised questions regarding changes affecting Intensive Behavioral Support Supervision (IBSS) that took effect at the beginning of the year. AFHC continues to monitor how these changes affect residents and providers and is communicating with state partners to ensure providers understand available options and transitions for clients who previously received these services. Workforce and Credentialing Updates Workforce challenges continue to affect many adult family homes across our State. Members have reported significant continuing delays in Home Care Aide (HCA) and other credentialing and training timelines, which can affect staffing stability. AFHC is raising these concerns with state agencies and advocating for improvements that help qualified workers enter the workforce more efficiently while maintaining safety and quality standards. We also encourage members to continue supporting new caregivers entering the field and to stay engaged with training opportunities that support long-term workforce development. TB Screening and Health Facility Requirements Several proposals this legislative session and through agency rulemaking continue to discuss TB screening requirements and broader health facility standards that may affect long-term care settings. The AFHC is promoting a change to one-test per year, unless risk factors are present, to address the barrier that the testing requirement has created. The AFHC is monitoring these discussions closely to ensure that any changes recognize the unique size, structure, and residential model of Adult Family Homes. Immigration and Workforce Protection Policies Legislation affecting health care workforce protections and immigration status policies is also being discussed during the current legislative session. While these issues affect multiple health sectors, AFHC is working to ensure that policies are implemented in ways that support stability for the caregiving workforce that Adult Family Homes rely on. Member Governance and Elections Earlier this month we also shared information regarding the issue affecting, and remedial steps taken, regarding the AFHC’s online voting system used for the AFHC Executive Board election. Working with our website vendor, we verified voter participation and contacted members whose votes required confirmation so that every vote could be counted accurately. We appreciated members’ patience as we ensured the integrity of the election process and as we look to implement additional safeguards to prevent similar issues in future elections. Looking Ahead The AFHC continues to provide resources and engagement opportunities for members, including: The Adult Family Home Council Learning Lab Monthly webinars with our in-house experts: Our Mornings With Series, bi-weekly informal, conversational meetings where you can ask our team questions: AFHC hosted webinars with outside experts, on topics including WA Cares, Employee Rights, Room & Care, expanding your AFH, and more. AFHC Chapter Meetings – a great way to network and learn from other AFH providers and affiliate business partners. Stay Connected with the AFHC! The AFHC regularly shares updates on regulatory changes, training opportunities, and policy developments – in webinars, emails, website and Facebook posts, chapter meetings, and more. Thank you for helping us remain member driven, and mission focused in all we do. Adult Family Homes remain one of Washington’s most important community-based care models, providing individualized care to thousands of residents across the state. The compassion and professionalism you bring to this work every day continue to make a profound difference for residents and families. Thank you for your dedication, support, and continued active engagement with the Adult Family Home Council. Sincerely, Bob Schroeter Executive Director |
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| | Weekly Communication Updates from Member Regulatory Support |
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| 2026 Update to Adjustment Request Form Process for AFH Claims The Department issued a notice to their staff about the improvements to the process for adjusting claims for past dates of service. This improvement was negotiated by the Adult Family Home Council during meetings with the Department. What this means for you… 1. No action is needed from Providers. The information in the letter is specific to department staff and the changes to their internal processes. AFHs No Longer an Eligible Setting for Roads to Community Living (RCL) Recipients The Department issued a notice that, effective 03/01/2026, admitting clients participating in the RCL program to AFHs is no longer a viable option. This change is due to changes made at the federal level. RCL recipients living in residential (group home) settings must live in a home with four or fewer unrelated individuals. Based on AFH licensing structures and operational models, these settings are no longer compatible with the program standards. What this means for you… 1. No action is needed from Providers. The letter is intended as information only. 2. Providers who have current residents in their homes on the RCL waiver should be aware that the department case manager will work to transition the client to another waiver, such as Community First Choice (CFC). 3. Providers anticipating admitting a client to their home on an RCL waiver in the near future should anticipate the case manager discussing options with the client to determine if they wish to remain on the RCL waiver and plan admission to another setting OR to continue with admission and transition to a different waiver. Measles Remains a Growing Concern in WA DOH issued an updated alert related to the rising cases of measles in WA, reminding the public that the MMR vaccination continues to be the most reliable way to avoid serious disease if infected, or avoid infection completely. All cases reported since 01/01/2026 have occurred in individuals who are unvaccinated. What this means for you… 1. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles, particularly in individuals who are not vaccinated. Symptoms typically appear 7-21 days after exposure and include: High fever, cough, and runny nose Red, watery eyes A rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body
Measles can cause life-threatening health complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation. For more information on the disease, please visit https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/illness-and-disease-z/measles. |
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| | | | | | Spring Conference Dates Announced! |
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| We’re excited to share the dates for our upcoming Spring Conferences: Auburn: Wednesday, April 29 Vancouver: Wednesday, May 6 Spokane: Wednesday, May 13 Our speaker panel will cover the latest trends and best practices in compliance, providing valuable takeaways for all attendees. This is your opportunity to connect with peers, share experiences, and strengthen your professional network. Vendor and sponsorship registration opens next week, and member registration will be available the first week of April. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and grow! |
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| | | Free Compliance Support Available Through the LTC Quality Improvement Program |
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| Did you know…? The Long-term Care Quality Improvement Program (LTCQIP) is there for you! This is a free service available to providers through the department to assist with compliance topics. This is a completely voluntary service, with the goal of supporting providers in being proactive when they are having difficulty navigating regulatory compliance.
What to know:
Visits are conducted by non-licensing department staff. While all DSHS employees are mandated reporters, LTCQIP program staff do not cite providers for non-compliance. Their focus is on strengthening care and documentation systems. Services provided include: Evaluation of care delivery systems related to community standards, evidence-based practice, and regulatory requirements for medication management, falls, and infection prevention and control Identification of provider goals Onsite observation of care and care delivery systems Coaching through on-site and virtual interaction Written summary of LTCQIP visit findings Assistance to help the provider write an action plan Resource and referral to support the provider in making improvements to care and care delivery systems Follow up support for change
Additional information about this program is linked below. If you have questions related to the program, you can contact them at RCSQIP@dshs.wa.gov. |
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| | | | | Advocacy in Action: Liability Insurance Update |
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| The topic of Commercial and Professional Liability Insurance has been ongoing since at least 2018. The issue at hand has been related to sub-limits being placed on liability insurance policies that fell below the $500,000 per occurrence/ $1,000,000 aggregate requirements contained in WAC 388-76-10192. Since joining the Adult Family Home Council in November, Regulatory Support Director Maleia Press has been actively researching this issue, working to identify the source of the disconnect, and exploring potential solutions. Through her efforts, Maleia engaged with RCS Director Amy Abbott, who reviewed the information provided and acknowledged that the sub-limit requirement presented a barrier that could not reasonably be addressed by providers. Amy immediately communicated to the Regional Administrators to cease focus on sub-limits and instructed licensors and complaint investigators to not cite for sub-limits. Meanwhile, Amy is verifying with the Attorney General and the DSHS Contracts Unit that there are not any amendments required in any location, whether that be rule or contract language. More definitive communication will be coming on this topic once this last piece is determined. If you receive any citations or consultations on this topic, or are told this is an issue that you as the provider need to address with your insurance carrier, reach out to Maleia Press at maleia@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org and she will get this resolved for you. |
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| | | MCO Clearinghouse Trainings |
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| | The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has begun rolling out a new Adult Family Home clearinghouse process designed to simplify how providers work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. Developed in partnership with Community Health Plan of Washington, the new system is intended to create a more streamlined process for AFHs by reducing the need to navigate multiple contracting and enrollment pathways with different plans. To support providers during this transition, the Adult Family Home Council is sharing a series of training sessions to help members understand how the clearinghouse works and how to successfully participate. These sessions will walk providers through the claims submission process and offer guidance on using the online system. Additional resources, including FAQs and opportunities for individualized support, are also being made available to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. Upcoming Training Dates March 17 at 2:00 PM March 18 at 11:00 AM March 19 at 3:00 PM March 20 at 11:00 AM March 23 at 2:30 PM March 24 at 3:00 PM March 25 at 10:00 AM March 26 at 9:00 AM March 27 at 9:00 AM March 30 at 3:00 PM March 31 at 3:00 PM April 1 at 2:00 PM April 2 at 2:00 PM You can register at the link below for any of the training dates above, or find the individual webinars on the AFHC Events page with the link to register. Please note: When you register for this training, you will not receive a confirmation email. You will receive an email the day of the training with a link to join. |
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| | | | Strong Attendance at the RCS AFH 2026 Winter Forum |
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| | Adult Family Home providers from across Washington joined Residential Care Services leadership this week for the RCS AFH 2026 Winter Forum, with approximately 180 AFH providers participating in the webinar. The session featured updates and discussion with RCS Director Amy Abbott and other RCS leadership, offering AFH attendees the opportunity to hear directly from the department and stay informed about current priorities, regulatory topics, and upcoming initiatives affecting Adult Family Homes. The forum also offered valuable time for providers to ask questions and strengthen communication with department leadership around the shared goal of supporting high-quality care for residents across Washington. If you were unable to attend, you can access the webinar recording and presentation slides below. The slides include helpful contact information, resources, and guidance shared during the session. |
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| Get Registered! Upcoming Webinars |
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| | | WA Cares For Providers
March 17 | 2:00PM – 3:00PM |
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| Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
March 17 | 2:00PM – 3:00PM |
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| This training provides Adult Family Home providers with a clear overview of the WA Cares program and its implementation timeline leading up to benefit availability in July 2026. Participants will learn how the program works, which providers are eligible to register, and the minimum qualifications and requirements AFHs must meet to participate. The session will walk through the registration process, explain how beneficiaries will select approved providers, and outline what participation means for compliance, service delivery, and business planning. By the end of the training, providers will understand the practical steps needed to prepare for registration and position their homes to serve eligible clients within their communities. 1.0 CEU available to all who attend. |
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| The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has launched a new Adult Family Home Clearinghouse designed to simplify how AFHs work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. This training will guide providers through how the system works and how to submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services. Participants will learn how to register for and use the online clearinghouse system, review and submit claims correctly, and ensure claims are complete before sending them to the health plan or HCA for payment. The session will also cover provider enrollment, Medicaid billing guidelines under the CBHS program, and common troubleshooting questions to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. No CEUs will be offered. |
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| | | | Mental Health Disorders: Foundations of Signs, Symptoms, and Interventions
March 18 | 9:00AM – 10:30AM |
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| The training course provides foundational knowledge regarding mental health diagnoses and their impact on providing long-term care. Participants will be introduced to behavioral approaches and interventions for specific mental health diagnoses, in addition to being trained in terminology and language to reduce mental health stigmatization. Other objectives include a review of mental health conditions and best practices for supporting individuals in treatment. 1.5 CEUs available to all who attend. |
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| | | | Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
March 18 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM |
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| The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has launched a new Adult Family Home Clearinghouse designed to simplify how AFHs work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. This training will guide providers through how the system works and how to submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services. Participants will learn how to register for and use the online clearinghouse system, review and submit claims correctly, and ensure claims are complete before sending them to the health plan or HCA for payment. The session will also cover provider enrollment, Medicaid billing guidelines under the CBHS program, and common troubleshooting questions to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. No CEUs will be offered. |
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| | | Mornings With Marketing
March 19 | 8:30AM-9:30AM |
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| Join us on the first and third Thursday of each month for Mornings With Marketing, a relaxed, conversational session where Adult Family Home providers can bring their questions directly to Alexandria Brown, AFHC Marketing & Communications Manager. These informal Q&A calls are designed to help you strengthen your marketing skills, build confidence in promoting your home, and make the most of AFHC tools, especially the AFH Home Finder, our statewide directory for connecting providers with prospective residents and their families. Whether you want help refining your listings, improving your online presence, developing your story and brand, or navigating any other marketing challenge, this is your space to get real-time guidance from an expert who understands AFH needs. Show up with questions, ideas, or examples from your own home. Leave with practical, actionable steps to help prospective families find and connect with you. No CEUs will be offered. |
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| | Licensing Inspections for AFH Providers
March 19 | 2:00PM – 3:00PM |
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| This session provides Adult Family Home providers with a structured overview of the licensing inspection process, including explanations of changes coming to inspections. Participants will review each phase of the process in order, including the pre-inspection review, infection prevention and control review, entrance meeting, environmental tour, resident sample selection, staff and administrative records review, observations, medication services review, psychopharmacologic medication review, resident and representative interviews, provider interview, and exit conference. By clearly outlining how inspections unfold from start to finish, this training is designed to increase understanding, reduce uncertainty, and help providers approach licensing visits with preparation and confidence 1.0 CEU available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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| | Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
March 19 | 3:00PM-4:00PM |
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| The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has launched a new Adult Family Home Clearinghouse designed to simplify how AFHs work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. This training will guide providers through how the system works and how to submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services. Participants will learn how to register for and use the online clearinghouse system, review and submit claims correctly, and ensure claims are complete before sending them to the health plan or HCA for payment. The session will also cover provider enrollment, Medicaid billing guidelines under the CBHS program, and common troubleshooting questions to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. No CEUs will be offered. |
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| | Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
March 20 | 11:00AM-12:00PM |
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| The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has launched a new Adult Family Home Clearinghouse designed to simplify how AFHs work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. This training will guide providers through how the system works and how to submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services. Participants will learn how to register for and use the online clearinghouse system, review and submit claims correctly, and ensure claims are complete before sending them to the health plan or HCA for payment. The session will also cover provider enrollment, Medicaid billing guidelines under the CBHS program, and common troubleshooting questions to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. No CEUs will be offered. |
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| | Upcoming Chapter Meetings |
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| | Lacey Chapter Meeting
March 18 | 11:30AM – 1:30PMMyMedSupplies – Community Room 6149 Martin Way East, Lacey, WA |
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| Challenging Behaviors: Through A New Lens Presented by Laurie Thompson, Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Challenging Behaviors Specialist Behaviors often labeled as “challenging” are rarely random. They are meaningful forms of communication. In this practical and insightful presentation, Laurie Thompson will help participants reframe how they understand and respond to behaviors, especially when verbal communication is limited. Together, we will explore the underlying needs, stressors, and lived experiences that drive behavior and discuss how small shifts in language, tone, and approach can create greater safety, connection, and calm. This session offers helpful tools for caregivers and professionals to respond with curiosity rather than control, strengthen relationships, improve quality of life for everyone involved, and feel more confident navigating difficult moments. 1.0 hours of CE available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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| | | | Federal Way Chapter Meeting
March 19 | 12:30PM – 2:30PMMyMedSupplies – Community Room 6149 Martin Way East, Lacey, WA |
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| Communication and Behavior Strategies for Residents Living with Dementia Presented by Eileen Harasimowicz, Outreach & Marketing, EvergreenHealth Home Health & Hospice Care Led by occupational therapists from EvergreenHealth Home Health, this practical class explores effective communication and behavior strategies to better support residents living with dementia. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how cognitive changes impact communication and behavior, learn person-centered approaches to reduce distress and responsive behaviors, and practice techniques that promote meaningful engagement, dignity, and quality of life in daily care interactions. The session also addresses identifying common triggers, implementing proactive non-pharmacological interventions, and using environmental and activity-based modifications to enhance comfort, connection, and overall well-being. 1.0 hours of CE available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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| | | | Spokane Chapter Meeting
March 25 | 11:30AM – 2:00PMSpokane Shadle Park Library 2111 W Wellesley Ave, Spokane, WA |
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| Your Story, Your Brand: How to Share What Makes Your Home Unique Presented by AFHC Marketing & Communications Manager Alexandria Brown Families don’t just choose a home — they choose a story they trust. This training helps providers identify what makes their Adult Family Home unique and communicate it with clarity, authenticity, and warmth. We’ll explore what “brand” means in the AFH setting, how compassionate storytelling builds trust with families, and how to craft a meaningful, memorable elevator pitch for tours and referrals. Participants will leave with simple tools they can confidently use in conversations with prospective families and partners. 1.0 hours of CE available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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| | | | Yakima Chapter Meeting
March 25 | 1:00 PM – 2:30PMThe Pub 5110 Tieton Dr, Yakima, WA 98908 |
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| | | AFH Council Online Campus Registration |
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| | As a member of the Adult Family Home Council, you and two staff members can access on-demand Continuing Education Units through our Online Campus, powered by Cornerstone Healthcare Training. This training platform is free with your membership and offers self-paced, mobile-friendly courses designed specifically for Adult Family Home providers. Members benefit from exclusive course offerings, a quick and easy registration process, and expert support when needed. Use the button below to request your registration and start exploring the Online Campus today. |
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| | | Interested in Presenting or Sponsoring? |
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| | The Adult Family Home Council is planning upcoming chapter meetings, webinars, and conferences. We invite affiliate business partners and experienced AFH providers to take part as education presenters or chapter meeting lunch sponsors. We welcome provider-focused presentation topics that offer practical guidance for AFH owners. Experienced providers are encouraged to share successful practices from real AFH settings and may present independently or in collaboration with Council staff. Interested in presenting or sponsoring? Complete our brief interest form to share your topic ideas and availability. |
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| | | Stay Up-To-Date with Our Upcoming Events and Webinars! |
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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 |
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