Rep. Peter Abbarno visits Three Rivers Care facility in Centralia; Highlights community impact
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Rep. Peter Abbarno visits Three Rivers Care facility in Centralia; Highlights community impact
State Representative Peter Abbarno, R-Chehalis, recently toured the Three Rivers Care facility in Centralia to meet with residents, staff, and administrators about their new renovations, expanded skilled nursing services, and the challenges facing similar skilled nursing and rehabilitation providers.
“Three Rivers Care is more than just a health care facility—it’s a lifeline for many in our community,” said Abbarno, House Republican Caucus Chair. “In rural areas like Lewis County, access to quality skilled nursing and long-term care is often limited. Three Rivers Care is stepping up to meet those needs, investing not only in their facility, but also in the local workforce and community they serve.”
The facility has recently completed significant renovations and expanded its skilled nursing services, ensuring patients in Centralia and surrounding areas can receive the inpatient and outpatient care they need close to home. In addition, Three Rivers Care has made investments in recruiting and training local staff, helping to grow the regional health care workforce and provide stable jobs in the community.
During his visit hosted by Caldera Care, Abbarno, along with residents, staff, administrators, and members of the Washington Health Care Association, discussed the challenges created by state policy decisions, including Washington state’s low Medicaid reimbursement rates, which make it difficult for facilities to cover the cost of providing services. In addition, they discussed the increased business and occupation (B&O) tax burden on health care facilities and a new tax on temporary staffing services.
“Many bad policies coming out of Olympia are straining local health care facilities and, ultimately, the patients and families who depend on them,” Abbarno added. “We must work together to invest in our care providers and support their efforts to serve our seniors and most vulnerable neighbors.”
Abbarno pledged to continue working with health care providers, community leaders, and fellow legislators to address funding challenges and reduce unnecessary financial burdens on these facilities.
