Conclusion

Washington has set a precedent in leading the nation in providing care for its residents. The state’s long-term services and support system currently ranks second in overall performance within the nation, based on the fourth edition of the LTSS State Scorecard. While the Washington Cares Fund has raised an array of questions about the future of public-benefits programs, the fund serves as a clear microcosm of what can be achieved across the nation. By creating this program, Washington has set the tone for future legislation on a federal and state level.

We’ve discussed design decisions that Washington State might consider to increase the accessibility of the Washington Cares Fund for the wide array of Washingtonians. These recommendations are broadly applicable to other states developing long-term care fund programs as well.