Potential government shutdown

In the event of a federal government shutdown, individuals enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid), Public Employees Benefits Board, and School Employees Benefits Board coverage—and those accessing behavioral health services—will not experience a disruption in care. In addition, health care providers will continue to be paid for the services they provide.

If a shutdown occurs, we will share more information at that time.

Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR)

Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) is a federally required screening of all individuals who are being referred to Medicaid-certified nursing facilities (NF). 

As a condition of approval of the Medicaid state plan, each state is required to operate a PASRR program. The Washington State PASRR process includes two levels.

On this page

Are you looking for the PASRR Level I screening form?

Download the Level I form

Level I

Individuals are first screened to determine if they:

  • Have a serious mental illness, an intellectual disability, or related condition.
  • Are being admitted to the appropriate level of care.
  • Need specialized services or less intensive services.

Who completes Level I?

Level I is completed by the referring party, usually the referring hospital or physician.

When should Level I be completed?

Level I should be completed as soon as nursing facility (NF) placement is considered.

Indicators of SMI or ID/RC require follow up by the mental health (MH) PASRR evaluator or the ID/RC PASRR evaluator prior to NF admission.

What do I do once completed?

Note: Additionally, a copy of the completed Level I must be sent to the receiving nursing facility (NF).

Level II

The Health Care Authority (HCA) contracts with PASRR evaluators to complete the Level II process. Evaluators must pass a background check and meet education and training requirements before they can perform Level II assessments.

For each Level I that is positive for MH, a PASRR MH Evaluator must decide whether a Level II evaluation assessment or a Level II invalidation should be completed.

To learn more and for contact information for the contractor in your area, view the contractor information map.

PASRR training

Information for hospitals, medical offices, and nursing facilities

The role of hospitals and nursing facilities in the PASRR process, person-centered practices, and integrated care.

Level I best practices

Best practice guidance for PASRR evaluators when completing a Level I screening.

Can I get training at my facility?

Yes! To request a training in your Washington State facility or community:

  • Contact the contractor in your region.

Who do I contact for help?

For all Washington MH PASRR Level II inquiries

Contact the contractor in your region first. View the contractor information map for phone and fax numbers.

Elizabeth (Beth) Loska
BH PASRR program manager
Email: elizabeth.loska@hca.wa.gov
Phone: 360-725-1478

For Medicaid certified nursing facilities

If you need a copy of the Washington PASRR MH Level II assessment that was completed on an individual who is or was in your facility, contact the contractor for your region first. Contractors may direct you to:

The following information will be needed on each inquiry:

  • Individuals full name
  • Date of birth
  • Your name
  • Your facility
  • City and county your facility is located
  • If located out of the state of Washington, please include full address and attach the completed Level I
  • Do you have a Notice of Determination for that individual? If yes, date of NOD
  • Do you have the PASRR Level I? If yes, date of Level I

Related links