Washington State Health Care Authority

This preliminary report, issued by the Health Care Authority, details the initial findings and progress in assessing and addressing funding gaps within crisis services as mandated by Engrossed Senate Substitute Bill 5187. The report outlines the workgroup's efforts to analyze the current funding model, identify the extent of service subsidies across different payors, and examine both mobile and facility-based crisis services. It also describes the project's plan to develop recommendations for an alternative funding model, including methods for determining annual costs, proportional contributions from health insurance carriers, and distinguishing between Medicaid-eligible and non-Medicaid activities.

The committee conducted a biennial review of the Washington State Common Measure Set, focusing on the finalization and adoption of the Core and Supplemental measure sets. Discussions included a review of public comments regarding specific reporting capabilities for rural hospitals and the evaluation of various quality measures. The committee also explored potential 2026 agenda topics, including patient experience measures, hospital performance metrics, health equity initiatives, and data reporting strategies. Updates were provided on WSCMS visual styles, and future meeting planning was initiated.

The committee reviewed the public comment survey results regarding the addition of the HIV Viral Suppression measure to the Washington State Common Measure Set. Discussions included the data source, feasibility, and impact of the measure, followed by a committee vote. Additionally, the committee addressed administrative requirements for the upcoming year, including mandatory training for participants and the necessity of in-person meeting options.

The board meeting focused on strategic policy discussions, including the Primary Care Committee's policy previews, a financial analysis of Washington hospitals regarding costs, prices, and profits, and strategic levers concerning business oversight such as mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and facility fees. Additionally, the agenda covered analytic support initiatives, nomination committee recommendations, and a review of medical debt and the 2024 workplan. Legislative updates from the previous session were discussed, highlighting various health care affordability bills and recent changes to board advisory committees.

This report outlines the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Work Group's recommendations for the 2024 legislative session to improve Washington State's behavioral health system for individuals from prenatal stages through age 25. The strategic priorities focus on addressing workforce shortages, enhancing services for young adults, strengthening school-based behavioral health, expanding early childhood programs, and resolving access barriers. The aim is to create a robust and equitable continuum of care, ensuring comprehensive support for children, youth, and families.