Washington reached a historic milestone this week as the WA Cares Fund began providing benefits, the first public long-term care insurance program in the nation.
For hospitals, WA Cares adds another important resource to help patients transition safely from the hospital to home. WA Cares can help people maintain independence while reducing financial barriers to long-term care services and supports.
WA Cares benefits can be used for services and supports that are often not covered by Medicare or private insurance, including in-home personal care, home modifications, adaptive equipment, meals and transportation. Crucially, these resources help people remain safely and independently in their homes when they need assistance with daily living.
Eligible beneficiaries can access up to $36,500 in benefits, with that amount increasing over time to keep pace with inflation. Workers earn benefits through automatic payroll contributions, and applications are now open for those who meet the program’s contribution and care requirements.
Nearly half a million Washingtonians are expected to require long-term care services within the next decade, yet few have private long-term care insurance or the savings needed to cover those costs. WA Cares provides a new source of financial support for families while helping people receive care in the setting they prefer.
Sincerely,
Zosia Stanley
WSHA Senior Director, Clinical Excellence
[email protected]