Skilled Nursing Facilities
Three New DSHS/ALTSA "Dear Provider" Letters Available
AL ESF SNF | Three new "Dear Provider" letters from DSHS/ALTSA are available online, regarding Emergency Preparedness for Extreme Heat, Wildfire Smoke, and Rapid Response Teams in LTC settings. Read MoreUpcoming Webinars on Enhanced Barrier Precautions with CDC
SNF | Save the dates for two upcoming webinars on Enhanced Barrier Precautions with the CDC! May 22 and June 5. These webinars are designed for anyone involved with or working in long-term care facilities who seeks to deepen their understanding of Enhanced Barrier Precautions. Read MoreWHCA's Annual Convention Happening Next Week!
AL ESF SNF | Please note that due to Convention and Memorial Day, WHCA staff availability will be extremely limited from May 20-27. There will be delays in responses to emails, phone calls, and messages during this time, and there will be no WHCA newsletters next week. Read MoreAdult Protective Services Functions and Grants Programs: Final Rule Issued
AL ESF SNF | The final rule related to Adult Protective Services Functions and Grants Programs was published on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. It is effective June 7, 2024, and creates the first mandatory federal standards to govern Adult Protective Services policies, procedures, and practices. Each state must comply with this final rule by May 8, 2028, to receive Federal Funding. Read MoreAre You Prepared for Measles?
AL ESF SNF | Measles can occur in healthcare settings. Measles planning and preparedness is easy for long-term care providers in all levels of care with the new pamphlet designed specifically for use in resident care settings Measles In Long-Term Care (wa.gov). Read MoreRCS Hires New Deputy Director to Provide Oversight to Inspection & Survey Staff
AL ESF SNF | RCS is very excited to announce that they have hired a new Deputy Director, Miriam Mina. Miriam will be starting with RCS on June 7th and RCS looks forward to introducing her properly as soon as she gets settled. Read MoreLatest "Your Top-Line" Publication Now Available!
SNF | Your Top-Line is a LTC Trend Tracker℠ publication that includes metrics and graphics outlining skilled nursing center's progress on Five Star performance, the AHCA/NCAL Quality Initiative, their journey through the Quality Awards program, and other necessary data to help skilled nursing centers achieve their desired goals. Read MoreLong-Term Care Award Enrollment and Reporting Now Open for 2023-2024!
AL ESF SNF | Now is the time to apply for recognition with the new LTC Respiratory Immunization Award. The award is open to LTC providers from all levels of care. You can enroll and report any time through June 3, 2024. The data reporting period is from May 1, 2023 to April 30, 2024. Read MoreThe DSHS Background Check Central Unit Website Updates
AL ESF SNF | BCCU has updated their website! Their new site is built for easy access to important information and updates. Read MoreFacility Assessment Action Brief – Now Available
SNF | On April 22, 2024, the final rule for Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities was released. In response to these changes, AHCA has prepared an Action Brief to help nursing facilities navigate the new requirements. Read MoreWashington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act – Reminder for Providers
AL ESF SNF | This week we heard from a provider who had questions about Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunity Act. Here is the Department of Labor and Industries Administrative Policy that provides guidance on compliance. Read MoreWABON is Now Accepting Spring Quarter Applications for the Student Nurse Preceptorship Grant
AL ESF SNF | Please join WABON for a 30-minute information session starting this spring 2024 through summer 2024. The information sessions will go through updates, step-by-step how to apply, common errors, and Q&A at the end. Read MorePartnering for Progress in Addressing Dementia – Webinars On Washington’s Action Plan for Dementia
AL ESF SNF | DSHS' Dementia Action Collaborative is hosting a webinar you won't want to miss. Discover Washington State's comprehensive plan for addressing dementia and learn how YOU can make a difference. Read MoreAHCA Provides Resources for NHSN Reporting
SNF | AHCA has updated their NHSN Tip Sheet to include more information for members and created a new job aid in collaboration with the CDC for submitting questions/concerns to the NHSN Help Desk. Read MoreEmployment Updates: FTC’s Final Non-Compete Rule and DOL’s Overtime Rule
AL ESF SNF | On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission’s Final Non-Compete Rule and U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Overtime Rule were released. AHCA/NCAL commented on the proposed rules during the open comment periods and has developed a summary of the final rules. Read MoreThe Background Check Central Unit April Newsletter
AL SNF | The Background Check Central Unit has released their newest "BCCU Buzz." Read MoreRecruitment for Public Member - Board of Nursing Home Administrators
AL SNF | The Department of Health has an opening for a public member on the Board of Nursing Home Administrators. This is an unpaid volunteer position. Applications are due by June 1, 2024. Read MoreMental Health Resources for Nurses
AL ESF SNF | Working in healthcare is rewarding, but also stressful. Resources can be difficult to locate when needed. So, WABON has put together a helpful list. Read MoreNurses Week is May 6-12. Let's Get Ready to Celebrate!
AL ESF SNF | WABON is excited to celebrate Washington nurses and the joys of practice during Nurses Week 2024. They will highlight both on their upcoming social media launch and through other communication avenues. Read MoreOpportunity to Help Improve the Safe Medication Return System
AL ESF SNF | The Safe Medication Return system at the Department of Health launched an awareness survey of health care providers (including veterinarians and pharmacists) and law enforcement staff. Your input will help the department assess awareness, attitudes, and use of Safe Medication Return services and benefits. Read MoreCandidates for the WHCA Board of Directors for the 2024-2026 period
AL ESF SNF | Candidates for the WHCA Board of Directors for the 2024-2026 period have been selected. Ballots will be sent via email on May 1, 2024, to all voting members.
Read MoreIt’s Here! AHCA Overview of Federal Minimum Staffing Rule for SNF
SNF | AHCA/NCAL President & CEO Mark Parkinson has released a full statement on the Federal Minimum Staffing Rule for SNF. Read MoreWCN Washington Clinical Practice Initiative Regional Meetings in May
AL ESF SNF | The WCN Clinical Placement Initiative is underway! See the attached flyer for the full schedule here. Read MoreCMS Released Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes
SNF | Information regarding the above topic is now available online. Read MoreA message from the Department of Health’s Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Management System (HELMS) team
AL ESF SNF | There's only 2 weeks left until the launch of HELMS Lite on Wednesday, April 24th! To ensure everyone is prepared, the DOH is sharing information about what is not and what is changing with the launch of HELMS Lite and how you can learn more. Read MoreConstruction Review Services at DOH: Box.com Now Includes Terms of Service
AL ESF SNF | On Friday, April 5, 2024, DOH rolled out new security features for external Box.com users that requires acceptance of new Terms of Service. Read MoreAmplify the LTC Workforce Crisis: Complete the Sentinel Network Survey by 4/17!
AL ESF SNF | It is critical that policymakers understand the dilemmas of a system that does not support workers. The Health Workforce Sentinel Network is open and collecting workforce data through April 17, 2024. We urge you to take 15 minutes to complete the latest survey. Read MoreCDC Call for Cases Due to Bacterial Infection
SNF | The CDC, in collaboration with state and local health departments, is investigating multi-jurisdictional clusters of infections due to Burkholderia multivorans. Read MoreDSHS/ALTSA Update on NAC and HCA Credentialing Backlogs
AL ESF SNF | Information regarding the above topic is now available online. Read MoreWHCA Board of Directors Call for Nominations
AL ESF SNF | If you are a WHCA member in good standing and have an interest in this important leadership role, the WHCA Call for Nominations is open. Read More2024 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program Now Open!
AL SNF | Nominations for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program are now open! AHCA/NCAL members are strongly encouraged to nominate those inspiring leaders and unsung colleagues who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service in the long term care profession. Read MoreThis Affordable Course Unravels Facility Assessment Challenges
SNF | Facility assessments are mentioned more than 100 times in the CMS State Operations Manual and F838 – Facility Assessment – specifically outlines facility assessment requirements. Is your team proficient at developing compliant nursing facility assessments? Read MoreCDC Adds Resources and Information to Implement Enhanced Barrier Precautions
SNF | The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) has a suite of tools and resources to assist nursing homes with implementing Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) as outlined in CMS’ recent memo QSO-24-08-NH. Read MoreOSHA Regulation of Infectious Disease in Long Term Care
AL ESF SNF | While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not currently have a specific infection prevention standard tailored for long term care facilities, it regulates employee exposure to infectious disease through the OSHA General Duty Clause and other existing standards. Read More2024-2025 AHCA Elections and Solicitation for Candidates Now Open
AL SNF | The 2024-2025 election cycle has officially opened for AHCA members in good standing interested in running for the AHCA Board of Governors. Applicants must complete and electronically submit by close of business on April 19, 2024. Read MoreCMS Issues FY 2025 SNF Proposed Payment Rule
SNF | The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued the proposed rule for the skilled nursing facility prospective payment system (PPS) for fiscal year 2025. Read MoreGrassroots Update: Help Us Help You
AL ESF SNF | Take this quick survey to help us make advocacy work better for you. Read MoreJoin the New DOH Quarterly Long-Term Care Call: Infection Prevention
AL ESF SNF | The DOH is launching a new quarterly long-term care call. Join April 1 to review the updated CDC respiratory virus guidance with the DOH and additional subject matter experts. Read MoreCOVID-19 Vaccines Updates Webinar: April 2
AL ESF SNF | NHSN is hosting a webinar on Tuesday, April 2 providing an overview of important updates to the definition of long-term care reporting for COVID-19 vaccines. Read MoreDSHS Releases Important "Dear Provider/Administrator" Updates
AL ESF SNF | DSHS has released several new "Dear Provider/Administrator" letters. Read MoreWHCA Board of Directors Call for Nominations Opens April 3
AL ESF SNF | If you are a WHCA member in good standing and have an interest in joining the Board of Directors, watch for the Call for Nominations to open on April 3, 2024. Read MoreWashington Case Mix Scores Update
SNF | The Department changed the report to address several issues. We do now know if the Department is now pulling the corrected MDS given all the technical issues in October and November 2023. Providers should review these revised reports. Read MoreCMS Implements Enhanced Barrier Precautions Effective April 1, 2024
SNF | The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued QSO-24-08-NH regarding the implementation of enhanced barrier precautions (EBPs) in nursing homes to prevent the spread of multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs). Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Provides More Regulatory Resources for LTC Providers in 2024
SNF | In 2024, the AHCA/NCAL Regulatory and Clinical Team is providing long term care (LTC) providers with recently published resources. Read MoreAddressing the Challenge: Workplace Violence in LTC Settings
AL SNF | This article will cover some of the practical and regulatory issues with workplace violence in LTC settings, exploring its history, expectations, and anticipated action for prevention and intervention. Read More2024 AHCA/NCAL Award Nominations Open April 1
AL SNF | Nominations for the 2024 AHCA/NCAL Awards Program will open on April 1 and run through May 31, 2024. Read MoreUpcoming Change to NHSN Up to Date Definition for LTC COVID-19 Vaccine Reporting
SNF | The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) is changing the definition of "up to date" for COVID-19 vaccine reporting in long term care (LTC) beginning Quarter 2 of 2024 (week of April 1, 2024). Read MoreNew DSHS/ALTSA "Dear Provider" Letter
SNF | DSHS/ALTSA have released a new Provider letter regarding the following topic: Temporary Process for Verification of Nursing Assistant-Registered (NAR) Eligibility to Continue Working Past 4 Months in a Nursing Home (NH). Read MoreHealth Workforce Educators, Policymakers, and Advocates Want to Hear From You
AL ESF SNF | Share your health workforce needs with those who can help solve them! The WA Sentinel Network invites you to participate by sharing insights on several topics. Read MoreSurvey Tips for F689 and Past Noncompliance
SNF | AHCA’/NCALs Quality and Regulatory Department is offering a bi-weekly blog series with important survey tips. Read MoreThe Center of Excellence Releases New March Education Events
SNF | The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) released new education events for the month of March that offer ACCME (Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education) credits. Read MoreNew Fact Sheet: Medicare Billing for Respiratory Vaccines in SNF
SNF | After many discussions between AHCA/NCAL and CMS about the confusing payment policies associated with administering preventive vaccines to short- and long-term residents in nursing facilities, CMS has issued a concise and helpful fact sheet that addresses several complex billing scenarios. Read MoreDOH Continues to Have Resources for Fit Testing and Respiratory Protection Programs
AL ESF SNF | While the Department of Health is no longer able to offer free medical evaluations through 3M, they do have a variety of classes to support long-term care facilities with their respiratory protection program. Read MoreWA State Department of Health Quarterly Call
AL ESF SNF | The Washington State Department of Health and other infection prevention partners are implementing a quarterly call for long-term care settings. Read MoreWHCA Board Member Selected for Joint Commission Nursing Care Center & AL Community Advisory Counsil
AL SNF | Ana de la Cerda, VP of Regulatory Affairs for Aegis Living and WHCA board member, has been selected to serve on the Joint Commission Nursing Care Center and Assisted Living Community Advisory Council. Read MoreNurse Licensure Compact Information
AL ESF SNF | WABON continues to hear from nurses that they are unaware of the ability or logistics to obtain a multistate license in Washington State. Attached is a flyer to help support a better understanding of this licensure option. Read MoreOpportunity to Serve: Nursing Home Administrator Board Seeks Members
AL ESF SNF | The Washington State Board of Nursing Home Administrators is currently seeking board members. Applications are due by April 5, 2024. Read MoreUpcoming Webinar: PBJ Tune-Up for SNF - Understanding the Connection to WA Staffing Requirements
SNF | This session is designed to provide an update about PBJ reporting standards—and will ensure that providers understand how to report payroll data, and why it is important to get it right! Read MoreQuarter 4 Case Mix Report Update
SNF | The Quarter 4 '23 Revised Preliminary (Case Mix Index Detail) CMID report will be generated during the week of 03/18/2024. The Q4 '23 Revised Prelim CMID Report will include MDS assessments from 10/01/2023 to 03/14/2024 that have been transmitted to CMS/QIES by 03/18/2024. Read MoreReminders for Residents with Electronic Cigarettes
AL ESF SNF | Electronic cigarettes are being used more frequently by residents in skilled nursing facilities. Here are some reminders on regulations and safety concerns related to e-cigarettes in facilities. Read MoreUpcoming Webinar: Independent Contractors Final Rule and LTC Provider Impact
AL ESF SNF | Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor published a final rule, entitled Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which goes into effect on March 11, 2024. Read MoreDSHS/ALTSA New LTC Provider Information
AL ESF SNF | DSHS/ALTSA has published new information on two important topics pertaining to long-term care. Read MoreSafety Net Assessment Increase Slated for March 1
SNF | The upper level of the SNA will increase from $23.00 to $29.00. This change will be effective March 1, 2024. Read MoreNational Skilled Nursing Care Week Resources & Exclusive Products Now Available
SNF | The American Health Care Association (AHCA) is excited to announce that resources for this year’s National Skilled Nursing Care Week® (NSNCW), including the Planning Guide, marketing tools, and special products, are now available at NSNCW.org. Read MoreFederal Arbitration Regulations-F847 & F848
Arbitration agreements have historically been a topic of confusion in our state that would garner the attention every few years with surveyors and facilities. With... Read MoreNew DSHS "Dear Provider" Letters
AL ESF SNF | A new provider/administrator letter is now available online regarding the above topic. Read MoreA Message from AHCA/NCAL's Mark Parkinson
AL SNF | Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of AHCA/NCAL, has made the decision to retire at the end of this year. Read his official statement now. Read MoreWhat to Know About the Independent Contractors Final Rule
SNF | Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor published a final rule, entitled Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which goes into effect on March 11, 2024. Read MoreDOH Continues to Offer Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) Resources
AL ESF SNF | While the Department of Health is no longer able to offer free medical evaluations through 3M, they do continue to have a variety of classes to support long term care facilities with all aspects of their respiratory protection program. Read MoreLast Chance to Apply for the AHCA/NCAL Diversity Executive Leadership Program
AL SNF | This week is your last chance to apply for the AHCA/NCAL Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP). If you are a mid- to senior-level or C-suite professional with a vision for leadership and a drive to make a significant impact, DELP is for you. Read MoreBecome Familiar with and Prepared for a DOSH Inspection
Washington State Labor and Industries’ Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has instituted a Local Emphasis Program (LEP) for enforcement that targets industrial hygiene... Read MoreBecome Familiar with and Prepared for a DOSH Inspection
Washington State Labor and Industries’ Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has instituted a Local Emphasis Program (LEP) for enforcement that targets industrial hygiene... Read MoreJoin the Washington State Board of Nursing
AL ESF SNF | WABON is seeking new members! If you are interested in protecting the public’s health and safety by regulating the competency and quality of licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, advanced registered nurse practitioners and nursing technicians, you are encouraged to apply. Read MoreCMS Releases FAQs Clarifying 2024 Medicare Advantage Final Rule
SNF | This week, CMS released frequently asked questions (FAQs) pertaining to coverage criteria and utilization management requirements in the 2024 Medicare Advantage (MA) final rule. Read MoreComplete AHCA/NCAL’s State of the Sector Survey
AL SNF | AHCA/NCAL is asking providers (SNF, AL, ID/DD) to complete a 10-minute survey to gauge your operations and how we can prioritize key issues. Please complete the survey by end of day on Friday, February 16. Read MoreSNF Medicaid Reimbursement Alert: Cost Report and Wage Equity Review Settlement Guidance from Bill Ulrich
SNF | WHCA SNF Reimbursement consultant Bill Ulrich is providing important guidance regarding cost report and wage equity settlements. Read MorePharmerica’s Guide for MDS Changes
SNF | At PharMerica, one of their goals is to help you and your team stay on top of the ever-changing regulatory landscape. From new requirements to more scrutiny from surveyors, there’s a lot to track. Read MoreWA State LTC Ombudsman Releases Regional Roster and Contact Information
AL ESF SNF | The state LTC Ombuds, Paticia Hunter has released an updated contact list and regional roster of Ombuds persons. Read MoreWHCA SNF Executive Quality & Regulatory Advisory Committee Meeting-Needs You!
SNF | This committee meets at least four times a year and as needed to serve as an advisory panel to the WHCA CEO on all things regulatory and quality within the skilled nursing profession and community. Read MoreCandida Auris Identified in Multiple Counties-Guidance for SNF Ventilator Units
SNF | Be aware that several locally acquired cases of Candida auris (C. auris) have been recently identified in multiple counties, including Snohomish and King counties. Read MoreCold Temperature Sprinkler and Pipe Safety Message from the Washington State Fire Marshal
AL ESF SNF | Recent severe cold weather resulted in many residential care facilities and homes in our state with broken pipes and/or damaged sprinkler systems. Our State Fire Marshal has prepared some tips to help you prevent any future damage to property and interruption in operations because of severe inclement weather. Read MoreEmpowering LTC Providers in the Fight Against Respiratory Diseases with #GetVaccinated Resources
AL SNF | AHCA/NCAL has developed comprehensive resources to assist LTC providers in promoting vaccinations, educating and offering vaccines to staff and residents (also fulfilling a regulatory requirement), and navigating the complicated commercial market for COVID-19 vaccines. Read MoreJoin the WCN Clinical Placement Initiative!
AL ESF SNF | WCN is looking for state-wide stakeholders to join our Clinical Placement Initiative. This Initiative aims to transform clinical placement opportunities for nursing programs in Washington State. Read MoreHHS Office for Civil Rights Releases Visitation Guidance Resources
SNF | This week, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released new materials pertaining to visitation guidance. Read MoreWA Board of Nursing Rules Filed - Effective February 23, 2024
SNF | The Board of Nursing Home Administrators has passed rules that will become effective on February 23, 2024. Read MoreJoint Employer Rule Overview: What You Need to Know
AL SNF | Last year, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued the final joint employer rule that broadens the NLRB's definition of employer. Read MoreOIG Report - Washington State Failed to Ensure that Nursing Homes Complied with Federal Requirements for Life Safety, Emergency Preparedness, and Infection Control
In the fall of 2022, twenty Washington skilled nursing facilities had unexpected visits from auditors representing the Office of Inspector General (OIG). These surprise visits... Read MoreLAST CHANCE to Apply for 2024 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award
AL SNF | All Bronze, Silver, and Gold level applications must be finalized and submitted by 8 p.m. EST on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Read MoreProvider Letter on COVID-19 Outbreak Reporting Requirements
AL ESF SNF | A new provider letter is now available online regarding the above topic. Read MoreDementia Action Collaborative Survey Now Open
AL ESF SNF | The Dementia Action Collaborative (DAC) is seeking input from providers about barriers and challenges of screening, diagnosing, and caring for people living with dementia. Read MoreWA Board of Nursing Preceptor Grant Process Update
AL ESF SNF | WA Board of Nursing is now accepting submissions for Winter 2024! The deadline to apply for grant reimbursement is April 15, 2024. Read MoreNew Health Equity Continuing Education Requirement
AL ESF SNF | Washington nurses must meet health equity continuing education to renew their license. These requirements must be done during the renewal period and can't carry over. Read MoreTacoma-Pierce County Health Dept. Updates for LTC Providers
Stay up to date with vaccines Get vaccinated against flu, RSV and COVID-19: Protect against flu, RSV, and COVID-19 flyer. COVID-19, flu, RSV, Pneumococcal... Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Diversity Executive Leadership Program Now Accepting Applications
AL SNF | The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is excited to announce the opening of applications for the next class of the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP). Read MoreDOSH Emphasis Program for Long-Term Care Facilities
AL ESF SNF | More information is forthcoming, but WHCA has been informed through our partners at ERNWest that there is an emphasis program regarding industrial hygiene for skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. Read MoreLTC Staff Vaccine Access Resources
AL ESF SNF | A new factsheet which aims to help explain health insurance plan coverage details for updated COVID-19 vaccines and COVID-19 vaccine accessibility has been added to the CDC website. Read MoreWA Multistate License Application Opens Jan. 31, 2024
AL ESF SNF | Starting Jan. 31, 2024, nurses whose primary state of residence (PSOR) is Washington will be able to apply for a multistate license. Read MoreSave the Date: Diversity Executive Leadership Program Nominations Open Mid-January
AL SNF | AHCA/NCAL will open nominations for the second class of its Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) on January 14, 2024. Fifteen exceptional individuals will be selected to participate in the program next year Read More2024 Quality Award Application Deadline: January 25
AL SNF | There's still time to submit your application for the AHCA/NCAL 2024 National Quality Awards. Applications and fees are due by Thursday, January 25. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL Member Benefits Updates
AL SNF | Provider members of WHCA also enjoy the benefits of membership in American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living. Read MoreNotice of Outbreak Definition Change for Long-Term Care
AL ESF SNF | The Department of Health has adopted the updated COHRA/CSTE outbreak definition for healthcare on January 1st. Read MoreWinter Weather Advisory
AL ESF SNF | The National Weather Service (NWS) reports an extremely active period of weather will begin in earnest today as the region will see heavy mountain snow, lowland rain, strong winds, and possible coastal flooding through midweek. Read MoreGrassroots Update: Starting Session Right
Monday, January 8, marked the start of the 60-day 2024 legislative session, and WHCA members came out swinging. Read MoreHow to Get Reimbursed for Paxlovid
SNF | With the commercialization of Paxlovid, reimbursement for Paxlovid for Medicare beneficiaries is now covered under Part D. Read MorePersonal Protective Equipment, Hazard Assessment Standard, and the Hierarchy of Controls
AL ESF SNF | OSHA's Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standard closely relates to the general duty clause in that it is up to the employer to recognize (or assess) the hazards specific to their center and then control those hazards. However, it is important to note that before we begin to select and distribute PPE to employees, we are required to first conduct a Hazard Assessment. Read MoreNotice of Upcoming SNF QRP Measure Removals
SNF | The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is alerting Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) providers of upcoming measure removals from the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP). Read MoreCMS Issues Proposed Rule on Beneficiary Appeal Process for Reclassified Hospital Stay
SNF | CMS issued a proposed rule on December 27, 2023, Medicare Program: Appeal Rights for Certain Changes in Patient Status, which establishes appeals processes for Medicare beneficiaries whose inpatient hospital stays were later reclassified to outpatient receiving observation services. Read MoreNew BCCU Video Tutorial on Additional Needed Notifications
BCCU is excited to announce the release of their new YouTube tutorial on Additional Needed notifications. Read MoreNursing Home Capital Expenditure Minimum Dollar Threshold for Nursing Home Projects
SNF | Each year, the CN Program updates the capital expenditure minimum dollar threshold for nursing home projects following the procedure in Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-310-900. The following information applies to nursing projects that will begin in calendar year 2024. Read MoreWhat’s Needed for A Compliance and Ethics Program?
Not so long ago, in November of 2019, Phase 3 of the Requirements of Participation became effective. Part of those requirements expanded the expectations for... Read MoreCDC Health Alert & Advisory
AL ESF SNF | The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Health Advisory through the Health Alert Network (HAN) addressing concerning trends for influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This alert refers to all healthcare providers and settings. Read MoreDSHS Provider Letter: Vaccine Reminder
A provider letter regarding the following topic is now available online: COVID-19, Influenza, RSV, and Pneumococcal Vaccination Reminder Read MoreDOH Support for 3M Online Medical Evaluations Ends This Month.
Access to your DOH sponsored 3M account will stop on December 30, 2023. Please update your account now by archiving the employees that have left... Read MoreUrgent Background Checks Update
AL ESF SNF | In March of 2020, Governor Inslee introduced an emergency proclamation that temporarily suspended the law that requires long-term care workers to complete fingerprint-based background checks. On October 27, 2022, the emergency proclamation was lifted, and BCCU is planning to reintroduce closing (expiring) background check inquiries beginning January 1st, 2024. Read MoreSupplemental Budget Slated for Release This Week
AL SNF | Governor Jay Inslee is slated to release his 2025 supplemental operating budget this week. The proposal will update the state’s two-year operating proposal, including Medicaid funding for the period of July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025. Read MoreGrassroots Update: The Advocacy Exchange
The Advocacy Exchange, an all-new quarterly publication specifically focusing on WHCA’s year-round advocacy community, will arrive in your inbox next Tuesday, December 19. Read MoreSpeak Up Award Nominations
AL ESF SNF | The Washington Patient Safety Coalition invites you to nominate healthcare workers who have fearlessly spoken up for patient safety. Your nominations not only recognize their dedication but also pave the way for their statewide acknowledgment. Read MoreFree COVID-19 Tests Still Available from HHS
AL SNF | As the spread of respiratory viruses increases this fall/winter, AHCA/NCAL is reminding providers about the availability of free COVID-19 tests through the department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Abbott BinaxNOW Test Kit Program. Read MoreCMS Publishes CY 2025 Medicare Advantage Proposed Rule
SNF | CMS recently published its contract year 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D proposed rule, which furthers beneficiary protections in several ways. Comments are due January 5, 2024. Read MoreAHCA/NCAL’s Parkinson Named “Most Influential” for 2023
AL SNF ESF | Mark Parkinson, President and CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare of 2023. This is Parkinson’s fourth year in a row to receive this honor. Read MoreMeet the New RAI Coordinator: Tara Hawks, RN
SNF | The new Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Coordinator, Case Mix Accuracy Review (CMAR) Unit Manager, and LTC Quality Improvement (QIP) Unit Manager Read MoreNew DSHS "Dear Administrator" Letters
| AL | SNF | DSHS has issued two new letters for long-term care facility administrators. Read MoreCOVID-19 and Flu Vaccination Update
The WA DOH appreciates all the collective work and effort done to protect LTC residents from vaccine-preventable diseases. However, there is more work to be done. Read MoreNew WA DSHS Resources for SNF Providers
WA Department of Social and Health Services has published new provider letters regarding the following topics:- Quality, Safety and Education Portal (QSEP)
- Strengthened Enhanced Enforcement for Infection Control Deficiencies and Quality Improvement
- Nursing Home Visitation: COVID-19 (Revised)