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Public commenter urges restraint on WA Cares marketing and raises provider/union concerns
Summary
A public commenter urged limiting marketing spend to essential information and raised concerns that current provider registration guidance directs caregivers toward networks that require union participation and dues; she also warned WA Cares benefits may not replace Medicaid and could be exhausted by high long‑term costs.
During public comment Elizabeth New urged the commission to limit communications spending to responding to inquiries and maintaining accurate website materials rather than broader marketing. She said marketing dollars had been used to "create good feelings about WA Cares, a mandatory program" and called some past spending unnecessary. New also raised concerns about provider registration guidance shown in webinars that she said directed individual providers to register with entities tied to the Consumer Direct Care Network of Washington and SEIU Healthcare 775; she asked that potential nonunion options be clearly communicated to caregivers registering to provide services.
New warned that WA Cares' $36,500 lifetime benefit could be insufficient given long‑term care costs and that some beneficiaries may exhaust benefits and later require Medicaid long‑term care services. She suggested the commission urge the legislature to consider stronger protections for the Medicaid safety net and referenced a policy paper with cost‑saving ideas she offered to share.
Agency staff acknowledged the comment and said they would follow up with additional information about provider registration options and outreach. The commission invited written comments and noted agencies will continue public engagement.
