July 16, 2025

Rulemaking to Commence on AL Memory Care Requirements

 AL  | E2SSB 5337, which passed the state legislature this year, creates standards for memory care services that will go into effect July 2026. DSHS will commence rulemaking starting July 24.
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Federal Budget Bill: Impacts to Medicaid Funding in Washington

 AL   SNF  | On July 4, President Trump signed the federal tax and spending bill into law. Medicaid funding for SNF and AL facilities will continue to be funded at the same federally matched percentage they are today.
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DSHS Works to Adopt Rules on Medicaid Resident Transfer and Discharge

 AL  | DSHS and stakeholders have been engaged in rulemaking to establish requirements for a legally enforceable agreement between the operators of AFH, ESF, and ALF and residents in those settings whose care is paid through Medicaid.
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Eliminating Testing and Certification Barriers for Home Care Aides

 AL  | WHCA staff serve on a statewide stakeholder workgroup whose goal is to identify barriers in the home care aide credentialing process. Vicki McNealley of WHCA recently volunteered to complete the online application for the group.
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Eliminating Certification Barriers for Nursing Assistants

 SNF  | WHCA is part of a coalition that includes the Washington State Board of Nursing (WABON), LeadingAge, and the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) on a federal nursing assistant initiative. We have approached Rep. Emily Randall to help champion a bipartisan effort to amend federal standards.
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Sponsorships and Registration Now Open: WHCA-PAC Fall Golf Invitational

 AL   SNF  | Whether you're an avid golfer, shot-shanker extraordinaire or just a big fan of golf carts, we encourage you to join your colleagues and business partners on September 8 for the WHCA-PAC's 2025 Fall Golf Invitational. Register today to save your spot!
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Update on Death with Dignity Act Medications in LTC Facilities

 AL   SNF  | DSHS has released a new "Dear Provider/Administrator" letter regarding the Death with Dignity (DWD) Act medications in long-term care facilities. Read the full letter now.
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WA Cares Launches Provider Training

 AL   SNF  | Before the WA Cares Fund benefits begin in July 2026, WA Cares will work to register a diverse range of qualified providers for each covered service. To ensure quality care, providers must meet minimum qualifications to participate.
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Administrator in Training Program Renamed to "Administrator Residency"

 SNF  | Effective July 15, the Board of Nursing Home Administrators will begin using the term "Administrator Residency" in place of "Administrator in Training" on their forms and website. You can view the BNHA Interpretive Statement here.
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Advocates in Action

 AL   SNF  | Whether it's penning an op-ed, hosting a rally or a tour, or joining a delegation to D.C., these WHCA members are inspiring advocates who are making an impact in our long-term care community.
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Grassroots Update: Leading by Example

Getting one legislator to come visit your building is an accomplishment, and an essential component of our successful advocacy work. Scheduling tours with all three...
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