AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

2007 AFH "Dear Provider" Letters

March 30, 2007

ADSA: AFH #2007-002
Centralized Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) Process
for Adult Family Homes

Dear Adult Family Home Provider:

Washington Administrative Code 388-76-715 gives you the right to have cited deficiencies reviewed by the department through the informal dispute resolution process (IDR).

Historically, the Residential Care Services (RCS) Field Manager for your adult family home conducted the informal dispute resolution process, unless you requested an alternate Field Manager. As a result of discussions with provider representatives, RCS is changing who will conduct the IDR.

Effective April 16, 2007:

• Field Managers will no longer conduct IDRs.
• RCS will centralize the IDR process for adult family homes.
• A Program Manager in RCS headquarters in Lacey will conduct the IDRs.

The rule, time frame/s, and the general process for requesting and conducting IDRs will not change.
You may:
Request an Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) meeting within 10 working days after you receive the department’s Statement of Deficiencies.

For all inspections/investigations completed on or after April 16, 2007 send your written request to:

AFH IDR Program Manager (A1)
DSHS/ADSA/Residential Care Services
PO Box 45600
Olympia, WA 98504-5600

Your written request must include:

• What specific cited deficiency or deficiencies you disagree with; and
• Why you disagree with each cited deficiency; and
• Which of the following types of IDR you are requesting:
  • A telephone conference; or
• A face-to-face conference to be held in Lacey, Washington; or
• A review of documentation you will submit.

After receiving your written request, the IDR Program Manager will:

• Call you to set a time and date for a telephone or face-to-face conference; and
• Provide additional instructions about submitting documentation or other matters.

Please contact Denny McKee, Program Manager at (360) 725-2590 or e-mail at mckeedd@dshs.wa.gov if you have any questions regarding the centralized adult family home IDR program.

Thank you for your commitment to the residents who need long-term care in Washington.

Sincerely,

Joyce Pashley Stockwell, Director
Residential Care Services