SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5374
AS OF FEBRUARY 3, 1993
Brief Description: Concerning the licensure of exempt hospice agencies.
SPONSORS: Senators von Reichbauer, Oke, Wojahn, Bauer, Barr, Hochstatter and Winsley; by request of Legislative Budget Committee
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Staff: Scott Plack (786‑7409)
Hearing Dates: February 4, 1993
BACKGROUND:
Agencies that provide hospice services are regulated by the state. Hospice services include care to terminally ill people that reduce pain and provide emotional and spiritual support. In addition, hospice services include bereavement care provided to families of the terminally ill.
The state regulation of hospice agencies began in 1988. The law provided that volunteer hospice organizations were not subject to licensure if they were formed prior to January 1, 1988 and notified the state of their status as a volunteer hospice by July 1, 1989. Volunteer hospices formed since that time have been subject to licensure.
SUMMARY:
Hospice agencies that do not receive fees for their services are exempt from licensure. Contributions provided by clients to hospices for their services are not considered fees. Hospices may pay their staff for providing care and still qualify for the exemption from licensure. Hospices qualifying for the exemption may refer to themselves as "exempt hospice." Hospice agencies exempt from licensure may seek licensure if they choose.
Appropriation: none
Revenue: none
Fiscal Note: requested