Adult family home providers push for Medicaid funding changes

By Isaiah Bernal, NonStop Local Multi-Media Journalist | Oct 12, 2026 WASHINGTON — A new statewide group said adult family home providers wanted Washington to revisit Medicaid payments as rising costs strained care across the state. Adult family homes provide care in a residential setting for people who need help with daily activities, medications and other health needs. One Richland provider spoke about how those pressures affected local homes in the Tri-Cities. The Washington Association of Adult Family Home Providers, or WAAFHA, announced its statewide launch last month. The group is calling on the governor, lawmakers and the Department of Social and Health Services to review the actual cost of care and set Medicaid reimbursement rates that better matched those expenses. A Richland provider with 30 years in the industry said the shortfall reached basic parts of care, including staffing and meals.

“It’s forcing to pick lower quality foods to be able to make meals because you can’t afford the grocery budget. So it just is very hampering in many areas,” said Osha Roberts.

Roberts explained providers sometimes had to cover more shifts themselves. She also said some homes might limit the types of residents they accepted if they could not afford the staffing those residents needed. WAAFHA also said providers should have a meaningful chance to vote on who represents them in collective bargaining. The group said it wants state leaders to work directly with providers on reimbursement and representation. The organization said its goal is to help providers sustain their businesses while continuing to offer safe, quality care. Source: NBC Right Now