Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health Care & Wellness Committee |
HB 2989
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning respiratory care practitioners.
Sponsors: Representatives Moeller and Cody.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 1/26/10
Staff: Rebecca Jones (786-5793) and Jim Morishima (786-7191).
Background:
A respiratory care practitioner (RCP) works with patients who have deficiencies and abnormalities affecting the cardiopulmonary system and associated systems. A RCP must be licensed and registered in order to practice, unless exempted, and must be under the order and qualified medical direction of a physician.
The practice of respiratory care covers an array of procedures, including: (1) the administration of prescribed medical gases, (2) postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration, and (3) the insertion of devices to draw, analyze, infuse, or monitor pressure in blood as prescribed by a physician or an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP).
Summary of Bill:
The types of practitioners under whose order and direction a RCP may practice are expanded to "health care practitioners" instead of "physicians." "Health care practitioner" is defined to include physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants, osteopathic physician assistants, and ARNPs.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/19/10
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.