​This is an annual reminder about the opening of the PNW and WSW application period to comply with existing submission requirements The application filing period for PNW and WSW is open from January 1, 2025, through April 1, 2025. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will not accept applications submitted outside of this timeframe.

The online application portal for submission of the PNW and WSW application can be found at Risk & Safety Solutions (riskandsafety.com) (RSS) and will open on January 1, 2025. All SNFs anticipating submitting a PNW or WSW application should register using the RSS platform, if they have not already done so. A username and password are needed in order to log in.

For first time waiver applicants, providers may go to the RSS Registration Page to register for an account. All applications must be submitted no later than April 1, 2025. For guidelines on the workforce shortage waiver, refer to AFL 18-16.

After submitting an online waiver application, a confirmation email containing an identification number (tracking ID) will be sent to the provider's designated point of contact. Refer to the tracking ID in any communication regarding the application. For guidelines on registering and using RSS, refer to AFL 22-01.

The list of approved facilities will be posted on the Centralized Program Flex Unit's CPFU webpage no later than July 30, 2025.

If there are any questions regarding a submitted application, contact CDPH at centralizedprogramflex@cdph.ca.gov and include the tracking ID in the email.

Sincerely,

Original signed by Chelsea Driscoll

Chelsea Driscoll
Acting Deputy Director​​