WSR 24-12-026
DEPARTMENT OF
SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES
[Filed May 28, 2024, 10:17 a.m.]
NOTICE
Subject: New Freedom Waiver (WA.0443) Renewal.
Effective Date: January 1, 2025.
Description: The aging and long-term support administration (ALTSA) intends to submit an application for renewal of the New Freedom Waiver WA.0443. The renewal application, once approved, will allow the state to continue to provide new freedom waiver services to eligible persons.
The new freedom waiver has been operating since 2005, and during waiver year 2024, it is authorized to serve up to 675 persons. The new freedom waiver services provide an alternative to nursing home care for aged, blind, or disabled adults who live in their own homes in King or Pierce counties and want an increased choice and control over their services and supports through a budget-based program. This program provides flexibility to adjust services and allows participants to exercise more decision-making authority and to take a primary responsibility in obtaining services. Services in this waiver include personal assistance service; treatment and health maintenances supports; individual directed goods, services, and supports; environmental and vehicle modifications; and training and educational supports.
The state is proposing the following changes in the new freedom renewal application:
Changes to performance measures.
Adding a new provider type, assistive technology professional, to the training and educational supports service.
Updating the maximum number of participants authorized to be served in the waiver each year.
Through continued conversations with area agency on aging partners, ALTSA is exploring expansion of the new freedom waiver into additional counties within the state.
ALTSA would appreciate any input or concerns regarding the waiver renewal. To request a copy of the waiver application or submit comments regarding renewal of the waiver, please contact the person named below (please note that all comments are subject to public review and disclosure, as are the names of those who comment).
CONTACT: Anne Moua, Waiver Program Manager, 4450 10th Avenue S.E., Lacey, WA 98503, phone 509-590-3909, TTY 711, email anne.moua@dshs.wa.gov.