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| | AFH COUNCIL UPDATES October 10th, 2025 |
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| | Message From The Executive Director |
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| Those who know me well know I’m a genealogy and history buff in my spare time. I love old photos and old posters from yesteryear, and one of my favorites is the old Uncle Sam poster saying “I Want You” to help our country in its hour of need. The simple wording and message, and the opportunity for us to stand up for the greater good – that’s what that poster always shouts out to me. Valued AFHC members, We Want You and We Need Your Help. We need our State’s Governor to hear our voices, and to help us amplify our messaging to stop cutting programs like meaningful day that are essential to AFH resident betterment, health, and care. Below and attached is a message we are asking YOU to send to the Governor (and an easy how to!) and also, to share to all those you know (Caregivers, Residents, Family members, Advocates) who can send the message in as well. One voice can be loud, many voices louder, and our collective voices together will be heard and never be silenced! Thank you for your care, commitment, and daily efforts in supporting vulnerable adults throughout our state in our State’s incredible Adult Family Homes. -Bob |
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| | | | 2025 Board Nominations is Now Open! |
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| Each year, one-third of the AFH Council’s 11-member Executive Board—representing regions across Washington—is up for re-election. The Board plays a vital role in guiding the organization’s mission, supporting and overseeing the executive director, ensuring effective planning and resource management, monitoring programs and services, and upholding the Council’s public image and ethical standards. This year, four positions are open for re-election: Region Three Delegate (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom), Region Six Delegate (Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Skamania, Thurston, and Wahkiakum), Region Seven Delegate (King), and one At-Large Delegate (Statewide). Nominations must be submitted by November 13, 2025, with voting open from December 8–31, 2025. New Board members will be announced in January 2026. All nominations must be made by and for AFH Council members in good standing. Once nominations close, submissions will be reviewed, and ballots will be distributed to member homes—each home receiving one vote. For details on Board member responsibilities and qualifications, see below or contact the Adult Family Home Council at 360-754-3329 or info@adultfamilyhomecouncil.org |
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| | | | Fall Conference Photo Album Now Available! |
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| We’re excited to share that the photo album from our 2025 Fall Conference is now live! The event was filled with meaningful conversations, inspiring presentations, and memorable moments that captured the spirit of our community. Take a look back at the highlights, see familiar faces, and relive some of your favorite moments from the conference. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s event such a success. We hope you enjoy revisiting the conference through these photos — and we can’t wait to |
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| | | | The AFHC Team is Growing! |
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| We’re excited to share that our team is growing with the addition of a new position — Regulatory Support Manager — dedicated to helping Adult Family Home providers navigate regulations, licensing, and Medicaid billing challenges with confidence. This important role is designed to make it easier for providers across Washington State to access clear, accurate, and practical information. By bridging communication between AFH providers, DSHS, and HCA, the Regulatory Support Director will help ensure that AFHC members have the tools they need to stay compliant and focus on delivering quality, person-centered care. We know this is a highly specialized area — and the knowledge required is extensive. This is not a position we’re filling lightly. We are committed to finding the right person with the regulatory expertise, communication skills, and deep understanding of the AFH community to lead this important work. What this role will bring to our members: – Expert guidance on DSHS licensing, inspections, and enforcement actions – Support with HCA Medicaid billing, reimbursements, and payment issues – Up-to-date interpretations of WAC, RCW, and policy changes – Access to training, technical assistance, and helpful compliance resources – Stronger collaboration with state agencies and policymakers This position reflects our commitment to helping providers feel informed, supported, and confident — no matter where they are in their journey. We look forward to introducing the Regulatory Support Director soon and continuing to expand the ways we serve and strengthen the AFH community. |
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| | | | A new process for submitting Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) requests will be rolling out in October 2025, with all provider types using an online form. Changes will appear in the IDR section of your Statement of Deficiencies cover letters. See more Dear Provider Letters below! |
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| | | | Twosdays Gathering Of Elders |
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| Join the Elderhood Senior Alliance on the second Tuesday of each month at Tumwater Falls at 11 am for a free gathering of local seniors—pets welcome! Come walk the trails, relax on benches, or picnic while connecting with others, sharing stories, and supporting one another. In these uncertain times, this space is for seniors to feel seen, heard, and valued. Questions? Contact Glenn Harper, Elderhood Senior Alliance. |
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| | | | A Warm Welcome to Our New Team Member |
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| | Stacie Thyrion joins the AFHC team as the Education & Support Manager. She brings with her a PhD in philosophy and a professional background that bridges both education and strategic leadership in senior housing. She has extensive experience developing operational training programs, guiding teams through complex regulatory environments, and enhancing the quality of life for seniors and other vulnerable adults. Her thoughtful approach to education reflects a deep understanding of adult learning principles and the value of clear, engaging learning experiences that honor the human side of caregiving. Stacie looks forward to working alongside AFHC members to promote high-quality, compassionate care and ensure every adult family home has the support it needs to thrive. |
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| | Understanding Medical Test Site Waivers for Adult Family Homes |
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| A recent Dear Provider letter provides important guidance regarding Medical Test Site Waivers (MTSW) for Adult Family Homes (AFHs), Enhanced Services Facilities (ESFs), and Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs). When is an MTSW license required? An MTSW license is required whenever a facility: Administers a medical test (for example, a COVID-19 test or blood glucose test), Interprets the results of a test, or Acts upon the results of a test. In other words, if any AFH is involved in testing, and they perform any of the above actions, a medical test site waiver is necessary. To clarify, the requirement does not depend on who conducts the testing. Even if an external provider administers the test, the facility still needs a waiver if it interprets or acts on the results. This guidance comes directly from the Adult Family Home Policy Program Manager at DSHS. Facilities should ensure they have the proper waiver in place to remain compliant and avoid potential regulatory issues. For questions or further clarification regarding MTSW requirements, please reach out to your DSHS contact. |
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| | | | AFHC Trainings and Events |
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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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