| | AFH COUNCIL UPDATES May 15th, 2026 |
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| | | | | | Executive Director Message |
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| Dear Adult Family Home Providers, Thank you for making our 2026 Spring Conference such an incredible success. We were truly inspired by the energy, openness, and commitment you brought into the room. Your enthusiasm and active participation made this more than just a conference, it made it a meaningful space for connection, learning, and shared purpose. We designed this conference to center your voice, and you showed up fully. From thoughtful questions to honest feedback and lively discussions, your engagement is exactly what strengthens our work and ensures we are advocating in ways that reflect your real experiences. Simply put, we could not have done this without you. As we move forward, please know that everything you shared will directly inform our advocacy efforts. Whether we are working with state departments, engaging in the legislative process, or preparing for our upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, your voice will continue to guide our priorities and strategy. We remain committed to standing alongside you and advancing the issues that matter most to your homes, your staff, and the residents you serve. We also want to thank you for your patience as we finalize continuing education certificates for Spring Conference. All AFH Council member providers who attended the conference will receive their certificates by the end of May. It was truly an honor to spend the day with you. We are grateful for your partnership, your leadership, and the essential care you provide every day across Washington State. We look forward to continuing this work together. With appreciation, Amina Teouri Interim Executive Director Adult Family Home Council |
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| | Speak Up Now: Oppose HCA’s Sole‑Source Incontinence & Urological Proposal |
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| The Health Care Authority (HCA) is proposing a statewide sole-source contract for incontinence and urological supplies for Apple Health clients. If approved, a single mail-order vendor would replace the current network of suppliers many Adult Family Homes rely on today. AFHC is strongly opposing this proposal due to concerns about reduced product choice, delivery delays, and risks to resident safety, comfort, and dignity. Providers know that continence care is not one-size-fits-all, and access to multiple experienced suppliers is critical for meeting residents’ changing needs. We are encouraging providers to take action now by contacting their legislators and HCA Procurements to explain how this proposal could impact their residents and operations. Your voice and real-world experience matter. Even a short message can help protect resident choice, continuity of care, and access to quality supplies across Washington. |
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| | | Potential Delay with Medicaid Financial Applications |
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| The Department recently reorganized Intake and Financial Workers into a separate division from Home and Community Services (HCS). As a result of this transition, some early delays have been identified that may affect how quickly Medicaid service authorizations are processed. For Adult Family Home providers, this is especially important for residents transitioning from private pay to Medicaid. Providers are strongly encouraged to ensure applications are submitted at least 45 days in advance, with 60–90 days preferred whenever possible. If you are experiencing delays with a resident’s Medicaid application or authorization process, the Council encourages providers to reach out as soon as possible so staff can assist in addressing the issue with the Department. |
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| | | Adult Family Home Pilot for Investigation of Facility-Reported Incidents |
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| Residential Care Services (RCS) will begin a new six-month pilot program in July 2026 that introduces an administrative review and offsite investigation process for certain facility-reported incidents (FRIs) in Adult Family Homes. Under this pilot, providers will continue reporting incidents through the RCS Online Incident Reporting (OIR) portal, while also submitting follow-up updates and supporting documentation electronically as part of the investigation process. The goal of the pilot is to improve efficiency, streamline investigations, and reduce unnecessary onsite visits while maintaining oversight and accountability.
Upcoming Training OpportunityTo help providers prepare for these changes, AFHC and RCS are offering a joint virtual training covering: Mandatory reporting requirements Follow-up update expectations How to upload documentation through the OIR portal Provider responsibilities during the pilot
June 23, 2026
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
1.5 CE Hours Available We encourage providers and staff to attend and become familiar with the updated investigation process before the pilot begins. |
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| | | AFHC Payment System Update |
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| The payment system transition at the Council is almost complete. As part of the transition, you will receive an email with the subject line [Adult Family Home Council] Manage your Subscription. This email is simply an invitation for you to log into the Adult Family Home Council billing portal. In the portal, you can manage your payment information. Please reach out to us if you have any questions. Bryon Dahl 360-810-2760 Accounts@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org OR Member Support 360-754-3329 option 4 info@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org https://adultfamilyhomecouncil.org/contact-us |
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| | | DSHS HCS & DDCS AFH Connection Meeting |
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| Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) and Home and Community Services (HCS), in partnership with the Adult Family Home Council, are continuing their collaborative AFH Connection Meetings for providers across Washington. These meetings are designed to provide important updates, educational opportunities, and open discussion on issues impacting Adult Family Homes and long-term care services. The upcoming session will focus on communication strategies and case management services for individuals experiencing hearing loss. Meeting Details
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Providers will have the opportunity to learn about available resources, strengthen communication with state partners, and participate in discussions related to resident care and provider support. |
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| | | | The Adult Family Home Council is expanding its team and hiring for two important roles: an Education Coordinator and an additional Member Support staff position. These positions are part of AFHC’s continued efforts to strengthen provider support, improve access to education and training, and respond more effectively to the growing needs of the Adult Family Home community. The Education Coordinator will help support chapter meetings conferences, webinars, and training programs, while the Member Support role will help improve response times for providers needing guidance on regulatory, operational, and compliance concerns. Providers and individuals with relevant experience are encouraged to apply and help support the future of Adult Family Homes across Washington. |
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| | | Revised AFH Licensing Visits: What Providers Can Expect Under the New Inspection Model |
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| Residential Care Services (RCS) has officially implemented a revised licensing inspection process for Adult Family Homes effective May 1, 2026. The updated model is designed to reduce inspection backlogs and streamline the licensing process while maintaining existing compliance standards. One of the biggest changes providers may notice is that inspections are expected to be shorter and more focused, with many visits now taking closer to four hours instead of a full day. The revised process also places greater emphasis on targeted sampling of records rather than reviewing every file individually. In addition, providers now have a formal 24-hour window to electronically submit documents that are not immediately available during the inspection. The Council will continue sharing updated guidance, tools, and training resources as additional information becomes available. |
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| | | CPR Expectations in Adult Family Homes |
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| Residential Care Services (RCS) recently issued updated guidance reminding long-term care providers that trained staff are expected to begin CPR immediately when it is appropriate and consistent with a resident’s wishes. The guidance emphasizes that staff should not delay CPR while waiting for direction from a supervisor or administrator when a resident has chosen to receive resuscitation efforts. It also highlights the importance of maintaining current CPR certifications, clear emergency response procedures, and accessible POLST forms and advance directives. Providers are encouraged to review staff training, emergency policies, and systems for identifying resident code status to ensure compliance with current expectations. |
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| | | Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Trainings Now Available Through AFHC |
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| The Council has partnered with the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) and Community Health Partnership Services (CHPS) to bring Adult Family Home Claims & Billing trainings directly to the AFHC webinar platform. These are the same CHPS-led trainings, now easier to access with simplified registration through the Council. Participants will also receive 2.0 Continuing Education Credits. These sessions are designed to help providers better understand the new clearinghouse system, including how to register, submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services, complete enrollment, and navigate common billing challenges. Upcoming Training DatesMay 8 at 1:00 PM May 11 at 11:00 AM May 18 at 1:00 PM May 26 at 2:00 PM
We understand this transition has created challenges, and we appreciate the feedback you’ve shared. Offering these trainings through the AFHC platform is one way we’re working to better support you. |
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| | | | Proposed Change to Your AFH Licensing Rules – What You Need to Know |
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| The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has filed proposed updates to Adult Family Home licensing rules (Chapter 388-76 WAC), now in the formal rulemaking phase. These changes may impact several areas of your operations, and providers are encouraged to review and share feedback. The proposed updates include changes to ombuds access and resident records, adjustments to licensing requirements for multiple-home providers, and new considerations for the physical environment, such as door width standards and approval for certain building modifications. There are also updates related to emergency preparedness and clarification around Plans of Correction (POCs). How to Share Your FeedbackProviders have two options to submit formal comments: Public Hearing
May 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM (virtual) Written Comments Deadline
Must be submitted by 5:00 PM on May 26, 2026
Email: DSHSRPAURulesCoodinator@dshs.wa.gov |
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| | | COMING SOON: Updated Worker Safety Awareness Program |
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| We’re excited to share that a refreshed version of one of our most useful safety training resources is almost here. On June 16, 2026, the updated Adult Family Home Industry Worker Safety Awareness Program launches with new training designed to make workplace safety clearer, easier, and more practical for providers and staff. The new e-course includes more than 45 short interactive micro-modules, educational PDFs, knowledge checks, and quizzes, with each module taking 15 minutes or less to complete. Topics include PPE, ergonomics, hazardous drugs, and other everyday safety concerns, along with L&I safety rules, requirements, and regulations. Participants will also earn continuing education credit upon completion and leave with practical tools to help create a safer work environment and reduce injuries in Adult Family Homes. The goal is simple: better safety for your team and better care for the people you serve. Watch for more details coming in May. We’re looking forward to bringing this updated program to members! |
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| | Get Registered! Upcoming Webinars |
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| | AFHC- Hosted Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
May 18 | 1:00PM – 3:00PM
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| This webinar is hosted by the Adult Family Home Council (AFHC) and taught by the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) team. The session introduces the new Adult Family Home Clearinghouse, designed to simplify how AFHs work with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. Participants will learn how the system works, how to register for and use the online platform, and how to accurately submit claims for CBHS and IBSS services. The training will also cover provider enrollment, key Medicaid billing guidelines, and common troubleshooting tips to help providers navigate the new process with confidence. 2.0 CEU available to all AFH Council Member who attend. |
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| | AFH Employer’s Guide to Worker Rights
May 19 | 1:30PM – 3:00PM |
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| Join Brenda Fay, Outreach Representative with Washington State Labor & Industries, and Stephen Yim, Community Outreach & Resource Planning Specialist with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division, for a practical, information-packed webinar designed to help Adult Family Home providers stay compliant and protect their business. This session will cover all the essentials employers need to understand, including Minimum Wage Act protections, tracking hours of work and required recordkeeping, overtime pay requirements, paid sick leave rules, employee protections from retaliation and discrimination, Minimum Wage Act exemptions, meal and rest break requirements, how the workplace rights complaint process works, and the key differences between federal and state requirements—including which ones apply to you. If you want clarity, confidence, and a clear roadmap for meeting both state and federal labor standards, this is a session you won’t want to miss. 1.5 CEU available to all AFH Council Member who attend. |
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| | Psychogenic Polydipsia: Explanation and Interventions
May 20 | 10:00AM – 11:00AM |
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| The training course provides a general overview of Polydipsia, a condition characterized by excessive fluid intake often seen in individuals with mental health conditions. 1.0 CEU available to all who attend |
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| | Citations, Consultations and More
May 21 | 2:00PM – 3:00PM |
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| This session focuses on what occurs after a regulatory visit or investigation. Participants will review Statements of Deficiency (SODs), including the required components of a deficient practice statement and the types of evidence cited. The training will clarify the difference between citations and consultations and outline the required components and expectations of Plans of Correction (POCs), including how effectiveness is evaluated. Providers will also learn about Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) options, including both traditional and panel processes, as well as the purpose and process of follow-up visits. This session provides a clear understanding of post-visit procedures and regulatory response pathways. 1.0 CEU available to all AFH Council Member who attend. |
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| | | Upcoming Chapter Meetings |
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| | | Lacey Chapter Meeting
May 20 | 11:00AM – 1:30PM |
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| Topic: Communication and Behavior Strategies for Residents Living with Dementia Presented by TBD TBD 1.0 CEU available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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| | | Federal Way Chapter Meeting
May 21 | 12:30PM – 2:30PM |
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| Topic: Communication and Behavior Strategies for Residents Living with Dementia Presented by TBD TBD 1.0 CEU available to all AFH Council members who attend. |
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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 Ste 1, Tumwater, WA 98501 |
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