Bill > HB1555

This bill addresses nursing home payment rates by modifying the existing system for establishing reimbursement rates for nursing facilities in Washington state. Beginning July 1, 2025, the bill mandates that nursing home payment rates will be rebased annually using the most recent historical cost data. The payment system will continue to have three main components: direct care, indirect care, and capital, with each component having specific calculation methods. The bill introduces a quality incentive program that provides rate enhancements based on facility performance across various quality measures, such as resident pain levels, pressure ulcers, falls, and urinary tract infections. Facilities will be placed in tiers (I-V) based on their aggregate quality score, with higher-performing facilities receiving larger rate enhancements. The legislation also maintains provisions for adjusting rates to account for inflation, using metrics like the skilled nursing facility market basket index. The bill aims to decrease administrative complexity, reward high-acuity care, incentivize quality care, and establish minimum staffing standards for nursing homes. The bill declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1555&Year=2025&Initiative=false