Washington State PASRR Update
The Washington State Health Care Authority’s (HCA) behavioral health Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) program would like to thank all skilled nursing facility (SNF) partners for their continued awareness and support of PASRR compliance.
Currently, SNFs in all regions across the state are being impacted by delays in receiving PASRR Level 2 determinations. HCA and Residential Care Services (RCS) collaborated on NH #2025-051, which outlines actions SNFs need to take until the delay is resolved. Please refer to this October 16, 2025, letter to ensure your facility remains compliant regarding documentation of PASRR status inquiries and updates.
Accuracy of Level 1 Screening Forms
Per WAC 388-97-1975, SNFS are responsible for verifying the accuracy of Level 1 Screening forms prior to admission.
- If you find that the PASRR Level 1 Screening is incomplete or appears to contain inaccurate or outdated information, request necessary corrections be completed by the hospital prior to admission.
- If you identify inaccuracies on the client’s PASRR Level 1 after admission, the SNF must immediately complete a new screening and refer to PASRR as appropriate.
Email Beth Loska at HCA if you have questions about this process.
Significant Changes in Condition
Significant Changes in Condition (for improvements or decline) are often underreported by SNF partners. Please complete a new PASRR Level 1 screening form indicating a significant change if your patient has experienced any of the following issues:
- A new behavioral health diagnosis
- Psychotropic medications are added or changed
- Changes in behavior, mood, or sleep
- The client’s care plan needs revisions due to new behaviors or symptoms (including changes in PHQ9, GDS, or GAD-7)
This list is not all inclusive but are general indicators that PASRR should be notified. It is best practice to review clients for a possible significant change upon readmission from hospital and during SNF discharge planning.
Training opportunities
If your facility is interested in receiving a BH PASRR training, email Tabitha Craven and Beth Loska at HCA.
HCA offers regular online trainings on the last Tuesday of every month.
Visit HCA’s PASRR page for more information.
