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Family Separation
Please read Dr. Rupin Thakkar’s statement on the policy of family separation: WCAAP Statement
WCAAP members have been at the forefront of opposing the policy of separating children and parents:
- Dr. Beth Dawson-Hahn’s editorial in the Seattle Times.
- Dr. Casey Lion’s editorial in the Everett Herald.
- Dr. Elizabeth Meade on Q13 FOX TV.
2020 Legislative Priorities
Our legislative priorities for the 2019 session include improving access to primary and specialty care for kids by increasing the Medicaid rate to parity with Medicare; increasing access to behavioral health care by increasing Medicaid reimbursement for behavioral health care to Medicare rates; maintaining funding for Washington’s Mental Health Referral Service for Children and Teens; banning all flavors for nicotine and tobacco products; and increasing the tax on vaping products commensurate with tax on cigarettes; and reapportioning tax revenue from e-cigarette sales to include prevention and enforcement of age restrictions on purchase.
Refer to the issue briefs below for more information and talking points on our 2020 legislative priorities, or share them directly with your legislators.
2020 Priorities
Bring pediatric Medicaid reimbursement to parity with Medicare rates
In Washington 1 in every 2 children relies on Medicaid for health coverage, but the low rates paid by Medicaid for pediatric care make it increasingly difficult for families to access care in many Washington communities. Bringing pediatric Medicaid rates to parity with Medicare will improve access to care for Washington children and result in better disease prevention, earlier diagnosis and treatment, and fewer emergency room visits.
Download: Medicaid Access Brief
Improve access to appropriate behavioral health care for children
Behavioral health disorders affect up to 1 in 5 children in a given year, yet 80 percent of those children affected go without treatment. Early diagnosis and evidence-based treatment is critical to help ensure healthy development and prevent problems at home, at school and with peers throughout childhood and into adulthood.
Download: Behavioral Health Brief
Support our youngest children
Investments made during a child’s earliest years make a powerful impact on their lifetime health educational attainment and economic outcomes. A statewide referral and linkage system to support families of young children will enable families to get the help they need to give their kids their best chance for success.
Download: Referral and Linkage Brief
End the dangerous vaping epidemic
Teen vaping is an epidemic, with nearly 5 million users ages 11-21. We can reduce harm by increasing the tax on vaping liquids commensurate with the tax on cigarettes; banning all flavorings in e-cigarettes/vape products, including menthol; and re-apportioning tax revenue from e-cigarette sales to include prevention and enforcement of age restrictions on purchase.
Download: Vaping Brief
Support and Partnership
We also support and partner with leading organizations: