SENATE BILL REPORT
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. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Health & Long-Term Care, February 22, 2010
Title: An act relating to respiratory care practitioners.
Brief Description: Concerning respiratory care practitioners.
Sponsors: Representatives Moeller and Cody.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/16/10, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 2/22/10 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Keiser, Chair; Franklin, Vice Chair; Pflug, Ranking Minority Member; Becker, Fairley, Marr, Murray and Parlette.
Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)
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 exempt, 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: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a technical fix and reflects current practice. This will update the law and prevent unnecessary delays to provide treatment when needed.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Moeller, Nick Federici, Respiratory Care Society of Washington, Gary Wickman RCSW, Carl Hinkson RCSW.