Dear LeadingAge Washington Members,

Below is a visual display of Washington’s 4 phased opening approach. The first phase of opening started on May 4th, and there will be at least 3 weeks in between each opening phase. The anticipated date for phase 2 to begin is June 1st. Each phase is, however, dependent on a number of factors based on data and science, including the number of confirmed COVID cases, hospital capacity, testing capacity, and contact tracing. You can find the full risk assessment dashboard here. You can find more details on the 4 phase reopening plan here.

While Long Term Care is not specifically named in any phase, we are advocating to keep restrictions in place through phase 4 and then at least 28 days (2 virus incubation cycles) after phase 4 begins. We need to exercise extreme caution when considering the removal of LTC waivers that, importantly, bans visitors given the ease with which the virus spreads, the at risk population served in these settings and the ongoing lack of adequate PPE and testing capacity. 

Questions?

Contact:

Alyssa Odegaard- Vice President, Public Policy 

c: 206.948.2279