Bookmark & ShareFor Immediate Release: 02/02/2012
Contact: Sharon Michael, HCA communications, 360-923-2764
LACEY, WA, Wednesday, February 1, 2012 – In mid-February, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) makes its final move as part of its merger with the state Medicaid Purchasing Administration when it relocates its remaining Lacey staff to Olympia.
The HCA office at 676 Woodland Square Loop SE in Lacey will close at 3 p.m. February 17. On February 21, the HCA will provide all customer services from HCA’s new headquarters at Cherry Street Plaza, 626 8th Avenue SE, Olympia. The move will not affect post office box mailing addresses used by HCA customers. Toll-free numbers for the agency’s programs will not change; however, local customer service phone numbers, fax numbers, and individual staff numbers will change.
Announced by Governor Gregoire in April 2010, the merger will help the state leverage more effective health purchasing strategies and prepare for national health care reform in 2014.
The Medicaid program provides health care coverage to about 1.2 million low-income Washington residents, while the Health Care Authority currently administers health insurance and other benefits for up to 330,000 public service employees, retirees, and their dependents, as well as eligible groups. In addition, the HCA’s Basic Health program covers 41,000 adults.
Will Cherry Street Plaza Include a Drop Box for Payments?
Yes. Members will have access to a secure mailbox outside of the building at all hours. A secure payment box also will be available in the lobby during business hours.
Is Parking Available?
Visitor parking is available as shown on this map. Metered curbside parking also is available. Drivers with a disabled parking placard can park free in metered parking spaces.
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