SMASH Endorses Whole Washington, a Grassroots Coalition for Making Universal Healthcare a Reality
- SMASH STAFF
- Aug 12, 2022
- 2 min read
Whole Washington is a grassroots coalition of healthcare professionals and volunteers from across Washington State. Whole Washington endorses both state and national efforts and supports organizations and candidates working to make Universal Healthcare a reality. They fight for single-payer healthcare at the national level and pursue a state-based model, using both the initiative and legislative process.
SMASH (Seattle Musicians Access to Sustainable Healthcare) is the only nonprofit organization in the Puget Sound area solely focused on increasing access to healthcare for working musicians in our area. Performing artists have many unique medical needs associated with their craft, but the skyrocketing cost of living means that their health often takes a backseat.
SMASH endorses Whole Washington’s work to ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need without having to face financial, demographic or situational barriers. Universal healthcare would mean Washington state residents would not have to choose between basic needs, such as food or housing, and getting medical attention. Ultimately this effort will lead to healthier, more vibrant communities, which is a win for all of us.
More About Whole Washington
Ballot Initiative 1471
The Washington Health Trust will be the first state-wide, publicly financed, not-for-profit healthcare system in the U.S. Instead of many private insurance companies and multiple programs, one public trust will pay the healthcare expenses of Washington State residents. This bill was written by citizens, for citizens, free from the influence of corporate and special interests. The goal is comprehensive healthcare, free at the point of service, delivered to all.
More about Ballot Initiative 1471
Filed in March 2022
The signature gathering began April 2022
405,000 signatures are needed by December 30, 2022 (Click here to sign up to volunteer to collect signatures)
The following are included in the Washington Health Trust essential benefits package:
Inpatient / Outpatient Care
24 Hour Emergency Services
Acupuncture, some massage, and other healing therapies
Audiology
Dental
Maternity, Newborn, Pediatric Care
Medical Devices and Biological Products
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
Palliative and End of Life Care
Prescription Drugs*
Reproductive Care
Rehabilitative Care, Occupational and Physical Therapy
Vision
*Generic prescriptions are fully covered. For any non-generic medications, the most an individual will pay for prescriptions is $250 per adult per year.
Who's Covered
All residents of Washington state and eligible non-residents are eligible to enroll in the Washington Health Trust.
Resident is defined by the Health Care Authority and includes individuals that are
houseless
not employed
in Washington temporarily for a job
traveling temporarily out of the state
Eligible non-residents will be defined by the Washington Health Trust Board and include
nonresident students attending college within the state
nonresidents employed within the state
the spouses or domestic partners and dependents of eligible nonresidents
