ANALYSIS OF HOUSE BILL 1216

         Removing the termination of the secretary of health=s authority

                         for administrative procedures.

Health Care Committee                          January 28, 1999

Washington State House of Representatives

SPONSORS:  Representatives Parlette and Cody.

BACKGROUND:  In 1998, the Legislature authorized the Secretary of Health, in consultation with the health profession regulatory boards and commissions, to consolidate in one process the administrative procedures and requirements for the regulation of the health care professions.  A uniform administrative process was created by rule that includes the issuance and renewal of credentials to practice, auditing continuing education requirements, and reissuing expired credentials.

After March 1, 1999, this rule-making authority of the Secretary of Health expires, and is transferred to the various boards or commissions.  Rules previously adopted by the Secretary establishing the uniform administrative procedures and requirements do not remain in effect after March 1, 1999.

The department currently issues credentials for 220,000 health professionals and regulates 53 health care professions.

SUMMARY:  The expiration of the authority of the Secretary of Health to establish uniform procedures and requirements for the credentialing of the regulated health professions is repealed.