Brief Description: Simplifying administrative procedures for state-purchased health care programs.

Sponsors: Representatives Schual-Berke, Benson, Cody, Campbell and Kenney.

Hearing Date: 3/4/03

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

The state is a major purchaser of health care services in Washington. The Department of Social and Health Services, the Department of Labor and Industries, and the Health Care Authority all purchase health care services for the clients they serve. If state agencies involved in the purchase of health care services do not operate efficiently and effectively they can negatively affect health care providers and health carriers.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Social and Health Services, the Department of Labor and Industries, and the Health Care Authority are required to assess strategies to improve core services, streamline current administrative practices, establish clear expectations, develop consistency with national and regional standards, and standardize similarities between agencies. The agencies are required to report to the Legislature by December 1, 2003, on their activities related to implementing these activities. By December 1, 2004, the agencies will take steps to implement strategies that are feasible to implement.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 26, 2003.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.