AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
2009 AFH "Dear Provider" Letters
June 5, 2009
ADSA: AFH 2009-007
“DEAR PROVIDER” LETTERS
Dear Adult Family Home Provider:
We recently learned that some of you may not understand the purpose of “dear provider” letters. I want to remind you why we write these letters.
A “dear provider” letter is a communication tool used by Residential Care Services (RCS) to share information. Each provider letter goes to every licensed AFH provider and contains information that we believe is helpful or necessary for you to know. You may receive a provider letter for one or more of the following reasons:
- To inform you about changes to state law or rules that affect AFH providers, including the department’s rule making process.
- To clarify or draw your attention to certain licensing requirements, and identify important trends and practice issues.
- To provide you with information that you should consider when working with residents.
In light of increased reliance on electronic forms of communication and our current budget situation, we expect to send out fewer hard copy provider letters than in the past. Also, no AFH provider forums will be pre-scheduled at this time. We will continue to post information on the website below. It is important that you frequently check the website for any changes/updates. You can find an archive of provider letters from RCS to adult family homes at http://www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov/professional/afh.htm.
Please remember you are required to meet applicable state law and rules in order to remain a licensed provider. The department’s provider letters may clarify some of those laws and rules for you. They may also provide you with information to think about as you work with residents. However, the letters are not law or rule.
If you have questions regarding any letter, please contact your local RCS Field Manager.
Thank you for your continued commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of the residents in your adult family home.
Sincerely,
Joyce Pashley Stockwell, Director
Residential Care Services
