| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 2668
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Expanding programs for persons needing long-term care.
Sponsors: Representatives Morrell, Green, Cody, Hunt, McCoy, Wallace, Pedersen, Campbell, McIntire, Conway, Simpson, Kenney and Darneille.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/23/08
Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).
Background:
The long-term care task force was created in 2005 in legislation at the request of Governor
Gregoire. The task force met for two and a half years, and held its last meeting in July 2007. The
task force received testimony related to the fact that most long-term care services are provided by
family members and informal caregivers.
One of the themes that emerged in task force meetings was that informal caregivers – family,
friends, and neighbors who make up the vast majority of care providers – need more access to
information, community services, respite, equipment, counseling, training, and other forms of
support to continue to care for loved ones in their homes and neighborhoods for as long as
possible. Further, information was presented to the task force that better use of preventive health
care strategies and improved management of chronic care would promote and sustain informal
caregiving around the state.
Summary of Bill:
Caregivers who provide critical health and safety support to long-term care recipients may
receive a one-time voucher benefit which may be used for respite or other services. The
Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) will develop a caregiver assessment and
referral tool to determine eligibility for this benefit and other services. Statewide services
provided by DSHS and the area agencies on aging will include long-term care planning,
counseling, crisis intervention, and streamlined access to community based services.
Adult family and boarding homes are not required to develop plans of care or discharge for
respite care services.
The Department of Health is directed to develop a statewide senior falls prevention program. The
program will include affordable senior focused exercise programs, community education, and
assessments on falls risk identification and reduction.
DSHS is directed to provide additional support to residents in community settings who exhibit
challenging behaviors that put them at risk for institutional placement.
A senior dental access project is proposed. The program will provide enhanced reimbursement
rates for certified dentists who provide specific procedures and for medical providers who
provide preventive oral health services. Coordination with the University of Washington and
outreach with the community is identified.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.