Washington state has one of the most stringent licensing requirements in the nation for adult family homes. This ensures that the seniors served receive excellent care.
All adult family home providers must be licensed by Department of Social Health Services (DSHS) and adhere to strict rules and regulations as described in WAC 388-76-xxxx. DSHS only issues one license per provider and per home. Licensed homes/providers are inspected by DSHS licensors on a 10-to-18 months average. Inspections occur without notice so providers must be in compliance at all times.
General requirements and qualifications to become a licensed provider
Requirements to become a provider include:
- DSHS approved safety and AFH orientation course
- 1000 hours of supervised and documented of care to seniors
- A high-school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Home Care Aid Certification (previously fundamentals of care)
- Nurse delegation course
- First aid certified
- CPR certified
- AFH administrator certification
- 12 hours of continuing education yearly
- Criminal background check with FBI fingerprint (every 2 years)
- Specialty training in dementia care, mental health, and/or developmental disability
- A $2750 (and rising) license application fee (non-refundable)
Additionally, a few providers hold a Geriatric Care Certification. This is a newer, optional program provided by the UW’s Northwest Geriatric Education Center. After obtaining 52-to-57 credits including more than 20 geriatric-related health topics, a provider will become a “Certified Adult Family Home Provider”. This program further enhances the quality of care for seniors in Washington State and gives providers yet more skills to deal with the ever-increasing complexity of their residents’ health needs.
