|
| | AFH COUNCIL UPDATES October 17th, 2025 |
|
| | Executive Director Message |
|
| | Friends, It may be only October, but our legislative and advocacy work is already well underway in preparing for the upcoming legislative session in January 2026. It’s a “short session” and we are hearing talk of “doom and gloom” from legislative leaders about possible spending cuts based on less sales tax revenue forecasted as well as the federal funding challenges now and coming soon. The AFHC Advocacy remains well positioned and ready with a seasoned team lead by Amina Teouri, former AFHC Advocacy staff and now our chief lobbyist, and Suaad Laari, our Advocacy Assistant. To get a flavor or sense of what impacts lie ahead on the “Big Beautiful Bill” – HB 1 – yesterday the Washington Senate Ways and Means Committee held a hearing with DSHS and HCA leaders on what they see as funding and eligibility challenges coming in the next 1-2 years, federally. It is a substantial impact if the law remains unchanged, and the ripples will be felt throughout the long-term care industry. At the bottom of this message is a replay of the video from TVW of yesterday’s conversation with the Committee. Finally, we want your help and your voices. In this issue, we share some of the key issues we are raising on behalf of AFHs for the upcoming session. We’ve placed those topics on a survey and have added space for any additional legislative issues that you may recommend to us this coming session. We already shared many of those issues, and our request to restore meaningful day funding, to State Senators visiting one of our hallmark Adult Family Homes in Everett this week. We can’t pursue every issue, or every issue successfully – yet by sharing the issues that are most meaningful to most of us, we’ll create the best outcomes on Olympia’s Capitol Hill. Thank you for sharing your thoughts below -Our eternal thanks to each of you – you make standing up and fighting for Adult Family Home providers the best part of our every day! -Bob |
|
| | | Have Your Say: What Matters Most for Lobby Day |
|
| | We want to make sure Lobby Day addresses the issues that matter most to you. Take a moment to share your priorities in our quick survey and help shape our advocacy efforts. Your input makes a difference! |
|
| | | | We’re excited to welcome our newest regional chapter — East King coordinated by Annie Puchar! This chapter brings together Adult Family Home providers and affiliate business partners from Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, Mercer Island, and Newcastle. The East King Chapter is all about connection, collaboration, and community. Providers, partners, and guests will come together to share ideas, learn from local experts, and support one another in delivering quality care. The chapter’s first meeting featured Mary Pope, RN, Clinical Liaison with Gentiva, presenting “Caring for the Caregiver: Managing Complex Emotions.” Mary shared valuable insights on maintaining balance and emotional well-being while caring for others. We’re thrilled to see this chapter take off under Annie’s leadership and can’t wait to watch it grow! |
|
| | | | 2025 Board Nominations Are Now Open! |
|
| 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 |
|
| | | | Discover Our New Map Feature – Connect, Market, and Grow!! |
|
| We’re excited to announce a brand-new feature on our website: an interactive map that allows you to easily search for both members and non-members across our community. This tool is designed to help you make the most of your connections, whether you’re looking to market your services, generate referrals, or expand your professional network. Using the map is simple: filter by member or non-member status, locate organizations or individuals in your area, and see how you can connect to support one another. It’s a powerful way to lean on your community, strengthen relationships, and discover new opportunities. Whether you’re promoting your business, seeking collaboration, or simply looking to network, our new map gives you a clear view of the vibrant community around you. Explore it today and start connecting in meaningful ways! |
|
| | | | Learn How to Prevent and Respond to Choking – A Video Series and Care Bulletin |
|
| Do you know the leading causes of choking and how to respond if it happens to someone in your care? We’ve put together a helpful Choking Care Provider Bulletin and a two-part video series to guide you through choking prevention and first aid. This bulletin covers essential topics, including: The accompanying videos, featuring DDCS staff Michael Rogers and Will Nichol, let you test your knowledge and learn life-saving skills like abdominal thrusts in an easy-to-follow format. Take a few minutes to watch the videos and read the bulletin – it could make all the difference in an emergency. |
|
| | | | 2025 Fall Conference Video Recap! |
|
|
| Catch the highlights from our Fall Conference! Attendees gathered to share insights, connect with peers, and learn from engaging presentations. From meaningful discussions to networking opportunities, this recap captures the energy and key moments that made this event memorable. |
|
| | | | Dear Provider Letters are notices sent from the Aging and Long-Term Support Administration regarding updates for AFH providers about policies, WAC changes, best practice guidance, and more. One of these letters provides clarification on the Washington Name and Date of Birth (WNDOB) and national fingerprint-based background check requirements. All Adult Family Homes (AFHs) must ensure that every caregiver, entity representative, and resident manager—whether employed directly or through a contract—who began employment on or after January 7, 2012, has successfully completed both the WNDOB and the national fingerprint-based background check. These requirements are essential to maintaining compliance and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. For more information, please review the Dear Provider Letters for October linked below. |
|
| | | | DOH Listening Sessions and Rules Workshops – SHB 1142 & SB 5672 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Department of Health’s Home Care Aide Program has announced public workshops to discuss implementation of SHB 1142 and SB 5672, passed during the 2025 legislative session. SHB 1142 clarifies training requirements for in-home caregivers who are exempt from certification. SB 5672 extends certification timelines for long-term care workers from 200 days to 365 days (or 425 with provisional certification) through December 2027. The department will host three online sessions to gather feedback and guide rule development for chapter 246-980 WAC: Oct. 28. 11:00 AM–12:30 PM – Overview of the bills Oct. 30. 1:30 – 3:00PM – Incorporating language into existing rules Nov. 3. 2:30–4:00 PM– Finalizing rule details Please register using the links on our event page for the workshop dates that work best for you. |
|
| | | | Updated Resident Roster Form Now Available |
|
| We wanted to provide clarification regarding the resident roster used during recent inspections. The form previously shared with providers was the same version that inspectors were using at the time. Since then, we have connected with DSHS to identify a version that is more user-friendly and easier to complete for Adult Family Home providers. We are pleased to share that an updated Resident Roster Form is now available. This new version simplifies the process, improves readability, and aligns with DSHS documentation standards. Providers are encouraged to begin using this updated form moving forward. We appreciate everyone’s feedback and patience as we worked with DSHS to make this improvement. Our goal is to continue simplifying administrative processes for providers wherever possible. |
|
| | | | Resident Transfer and Discharge Guidelines for Adult Family Homes |
|
| The Adult Family Home (AFH) Notice of Transfer or Discharge form is required when a resident’s needs cannot be met, the safety or health of others is at risk, payment is not made, or the home ceases operations. Providers must first attempt reasonable accommodations, such as care conferences or assistance from the Behavioral Health Support Team, and document all efforts. For non-payment issues, contact case managers, families, or guardians promptly, and report concerns to APS. When completing the form, include transfer/discharge locations or note “TBD,” document resident refusal to sign, and provide copies to the resident’s case manager and the long-term care ombudsman. Starting January 1, 2026, Medicaid residents must also be informed of available legal counsel and other resources. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | | | Highlight: Council Tours of Adult Family Homes |
|
| The Council has been visiting Adult Family Homes across the state, taking time to meet providers, tour homes, and hear directly from residents. These visits offer a firsthand look at the care, dedication, and personal touch that providers bring every day. A key focus of the tours has been giving providers a platform to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. By hearing directly from those who run these homes, the Council gains a deeper understanding of the realities of residential care and the commitment it takes to support residents’ well-being. These tours highlight the voices behind the care—both residents and providers and showcase the meaningful work happening in Adult Family Homes every day. |
|
| | HCLA-RCS 2025 Fall AFH Forum |
|
| | Home and Community Living Administration–Division of Residential Care Services is hosting their Fall 2025 AFH Forum on Tuesday, November 19, 2025 from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Join us for a conversation with your local RCS staff! These forums are designed to improve communication and give you the opportunity to meet your Field Manager, ask questions, and stay informed about important topics affecting Adult Family Homes. Agenda: Register Today to stay connected, informed, and engaged with your local RCS staff – your trusted advocates for Adult Family Homes. |
|
| | | Behavioral Health Support Services for Apple Health Clients |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| July 1, 2024, select Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) clients gained access to Community Behavioral Health Support (CBHS). This program helps people with significant mental health diagnoses live safely in community settings like adult family homes, assisted living facilities, and other residential care. What CBHS Offers CBHS provides supportive supervision, which is: Voluntary, one-on-one monitoring to prevent at-risk behaviors Assistance with skill-building and resiliency for stable community living Coordinated with other services such as behavior support or crisis plans. Supportive supervision does not include personal care and is available to clients in AFHs, ALFs, ESFs, EARC, and ARC facilities. Transition from Behavioral Health Personal Care Supportive supervision will replace Behavioral Health Personal Care (BHPC) funding. Providers should prepare to continue support and payment for residents during this transition. Becoming a Provider Providers can offer supportive supervision by: Rapid response calls (Mon, 8–8:30 a.m.) Office hours (Tue, 2:30–3:30 p.m.) Billing trainings (Wed, 10–11 a.m) CBHS strengthens support for clients while giving providers the tools and guidance to ensure safe, stable, and resilient community living. |
|
| | | | AFHC Trainings and Events |
|
| | | Stay Up-To-Date with Our Upcoming Events and Webinars! |
|
| | | | | | | | | P: 1.360.754.3329 | F: 1.360.943.6653 | T: 1.888.439.8999 3309 Capitol Blvd. SW, Tumwater, WA 98501 |
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
