| | AFH COUNCIL UPDATES May 8th, 2026 |
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| | | | | | Executive Director Message |
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| Dear Providers, I want to share an important update of our team. Many of you know and have worked closely with Stacie Thyrion, our Education Director. Recently, Stacie experienced a health emergency that prevented her from attending both the Auburn and Vancouver conferences, and after careful consideration, she will no longer be able to continue in her role with the Adult Family Home Council. This is a significant loss for our team and for all of you who have relied on her thoughtful, steady leadership in our education work. On behalf of the Council, I want to express our deep appreciation for Stacie’s contributions. She has poured a tremendous amount of care into building conferences, trainings, and educational resources that center the realities of Adult Family Homes. We will miss her greatly, and we know many of you will as well. Stacie’s departure also means we will soon be recruiting for a new Education Coordinator to help carry this work forward. At the same time, our Member Support team continues to experience a very high volume of calls and emails, often returning from conferences to hundreds of messages, many of them urgent. To better meet your needs, we are preparing to hire an additional Member Support staff person as well, so we can respond more quickly and ensure you get timely guidance when you need it most. If you are interested in either of these roles, I encourage you to scroll down to the articles below, where you will find more information about both positions and a link to apply. We welcome applications from providers and others who understand the Adult Family Home community and want to help support this community in a new way. With that said, I want to begin by saying thank you. The 2026 Spring Conference: In Good Hands — Advocacy & Guidance You Need to Thrive is off to a strong start because of you. Our Auburn and Vancouver conferences were full, engaged, and provided amazing feedback. Providers asked hard questions, shared real-world challenges, and offered concrete ideas that will directly shape our advocacy, education, and collective bargaining work going forward. Your time away from your homes is significant, and we do not take that for granted. We are now looking ahead to our Spokane Spring Conference on Wednesday, May 13, and are excited to see you there. Seats for Spokane are limited, and both Auburn and Vancouver filled quickly. If you plan to attend, please register as soon as possible to ensure you have a spot. Your presence matters, not just to the Council, but to the broader provider community that benefits when more voices are in the room. The conference agenda will mirror the structure that worked so well in Auburn and Vancouver. Alongside these sessions, you will have opportunities to connect with vendors, network with fellow providers, and enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch so you can stay focused on learning and connection. All attendees will be entered in drawings for items such as a new tablet and a Council-organized legislative tour experience, designed to both support your work and deepen your understanding of the policy environment that affects your business. I hope to see you in Spokane on May 13. Please register as soon as you can, bring your questions and ideas, and join us in making sure Adult Family Home providers have a strong, clear voice in what comes next. Amina Teouri Interim Executive Director |
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| | Membership Billing Update |
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| We recently identified a billing issue affecting some members following the launch of our new payment system on May 1, 2026. During the transition, an overlap between the old and new systems may have caused duplicate membership charges to appear for some members. In many cases, these duplicate charges were successfully voided and may only appear as “pending” transactions that should automatically disappear. However, if you see two posted AFHC membership payments on your statement, please contact us so we can promptly issue a refund for the duplicate charge. If you believe you were charged twice, please contact: accounts@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org
kris@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org We sincerely apologize for any confusion and appreciate your patience as we continue improving our billing system. |
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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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| | | 2026 Spring Conference Registration is CLOSING SOON |
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| | We had a successful Spring Conference in Auburn and Vancouver and are looking forward to welcoming providers in Spokane. Join us for the 2026 Spring Conference: In Good Hands — Advocacy & Guidance You Need to Thrive, where Adult Family Home providers come together to connect with Council leadership, share real-world experiences, and help shape the policies that affect daily practice. The Spokane conference is coming up quickly, and registration closes this Sunday at midnight. Seats are limited and filling fast, so don’t wait until the last minute to reserve your spot. This year’s conference is especially important because Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations begin in mid-May. Your input will help guide upcoming discussions on key issues such as communication with the department, program development, and fair compensation for the work providers do every day. Conference attendees will: Receive important policy and industry updates Gain practical tools to support business operations Participate in meaningful dialogue with leadership Network with fellow providers and industry partners Enjoy hosted lunch and additional engagement opportunities
Events will be held in Auburn, Spokane, and Vancouver to support accessibility across regions. |
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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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| | | 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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| | | UPDATE – Mornings With Member Support |
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| Mornings With Member Support is AFHC’s twice-monthly virtual forum designed to give Adult Family Home providers direct access to our regulatory and member support team. These sessions provide a space for providers to ask questions, discuss regulatory concerns, and receive practical guidance on topics such as compliance, surveys, documentation, resident rights, and day-to-day operational challenges. Session UpdatePlease note that the May 14, 2026, session has been canceled due to the Spokane Spring Conference. The next Mornings With Member Support session will take place on: Thursday, May 28, 2026
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM We look forward to continuing these conversations and supporting providers across the state. |
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| | | RCS Leadership & Regional Contacts |
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| Residential Care Services (RCS) leadership and regional staff recently met with Adult Family Home Council members to strengthen communication, clarify provider points of contact, and support ongoing collaboration with Adult Family Home providers across Washington. During the meeting, providers heard directly from regional leadership and RCS headquarters staff, including Director Amy Abbott and Deputy Director Miriam Mina, who emphasized the importance of open communication and provider engagement. RCS also encouraged providers to reach out to their assigned regional teams with questions related to licensing, regulatory guidance, operational concerns, and oversight before issues escalate. |
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| | | Policies and Procedures Training Series for AFH Providers |
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| The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), in partnership with DDA and HCLA, is offering a free 2026 Policy & Procedure Training Series for Adult Family Home providers. This four-part series is designed to keep you informed on key policies, procedures, and services impacting residents. Each 90-minute session is led by subject matter experts and offers 1.5 CEUs. Upcoming sessions will cover topics such as financial eligibility, rates and payments, and nursing services. Please note that providers must register for each session individually through DSHS. Be sure to enter your name as you would like it to appear on your CEU certificate. For questions, contact paula.costa@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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| | | 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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| | | | Social Leave Feedback Sessions for Adult Family Homes |
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| The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is inviting Adult Family Home providers, advocates, and community members to share feedback on the use of Social Leave for Medicaid clients living in AFHs.
This is an opportunity to help shape how Social Leave is implemented and ensure provider perspectives are heard. Upcoming sessions for providers: May 14, 2026 | 9:00 – 11:00 AM June 1, 2026 | 3:00 – 5:00 PM
Registration by April 30 is encouraged, but you may sign up anytime before your session. |
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| | Get Registered! Upcoming Webinars |
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| | AFHC- Hosted Adult Family Home Claims & Billing Webinar
May 11 | 11:00AM – 1:00PM
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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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| | Social Connections: Mental Health Conditions in Nursing Facilities
May 13 | 9:00AM – 10:45AM |
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| This training course provides the foundational knowledge to support the mental health needs of clients in nursing facilities. 1.5 CEU available to all who attend. |
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| | | | Room and Care Training for Providers
May 13 | 10:30AM – 12:00PM
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| This training provides practical, step-by-step guidance on using the Room and Care application to list current Medicaid vacancies. Participants will learn how to create and manage listings, keep vacancy information accurate and up to date, and ensure their home appears in searches used by case managers and referral sources. The session will also cover common errors to avoid, best practices for maintaining listings, and how effective use of Room and Care can support timely placements and stable occupancy. No CEU will be offered |
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| | Social Leave Listening Session with Adult Family Home Providers
May 14 | 9:00AM – 11:00AM |
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| Adult Family Home providers, Adult Family Home Council representatives, and advocates are invited to participate in a focused feedback session on the development of an Extended Social Leave policy. As part of ongoing collaboration with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, these sessions are designed to gather input from providers and stakeholders on how social leave policies impact Adult Family Homes in real-world settings. Feedback collected will help inform policy decisions and ensure that future guidance reflects the operational realities, challenges, and needs of providers. No CEU will be offered |
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| | Complex Caregiving: When Brain Injury Meets Domestic Violence and Justice System Involvement
May 15 | 9:00AM – 10:00AM |
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| These conference-workshops address challenging topics through a brain injury lens, providing valuable insights and support for survivors, families, caregivers, and professionals. Please note: Sessions will include discussion of topics such as domestic violence, trauma, and the justice system. We encourage participants to practice self-care, and resources will be available. No CEU will be offered |
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| | | Upcoming Chapter Meetings |
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| | | Mountlake Terrace Chapter Meeting
May 13 | 1:00PM – 3:30PM |
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| Topic: Communication and Behavior Strategies for Residents Living with Dementia Presented by Home Health Clinicians, Evergreen Health This training provides practical guidance on effective communication and behavior support strategies for residents living with dementia. Participants will gain an understanding of how cognitive changes associated with dementia impact communication and behavior, and will learn person-centered approaches to reduce distress and responsive behaviors. The session includes instruction on identifying common triggers, implementing proactive non-pharmacological interventions, and applying environmental and activity-based modifications that promote engagement, dignity, and quality of life. By the end of the training, participants will be able to describe the effects of cognitive decline on communication, demonstrate person-centered communication techniques, and apply practical strategies to support safer, more supportive daily care interactions. 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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