Long-term care facilities, including skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities, are a critical part of Washington’s long-term care services system. It is a long-held standard that individuals who reside in long-term care facilities receive appropriate services, be treated with courtesy, and continue to enjoy their basic civil and legal rights.

Residents have the right to:

• A dignified and comfortable living environment

• Access to information about the facility, the services available, and any associated costs

• Freedom to make their own decisions

• Access to (and the safeguarding of) their own money if the facility holds their funds or provides a trust account

• Privacy and confidentiality in personal, financial, and health-related matters

• A grievance procedure that is responsive and easy to use

• Participation in groups and activities of their choice

• Visitors of their choosing

• Legal protections regarding admission, transfer and discharge

• Freedom from chemical or physical restraints

• Freedom from abuse, neglect, or exploitation

Contact the Education & Regulatory team with questions regarding residents’ rights in your facility.

Skilled Nursing Facilities
Elena Madrid
Executive Vice President for Education & Regulatory Affairs
(360) 352-3304 x 105

Assisted Living Communities
Vicki McNealley
Director of Assisted Living
(360) 352-3304 x 107