SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6041

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 of February 18, 2009

Title: An act relating to improving data on childhood immunizations.

Brief Description: Creating a statewide immunization registry.

Sponsors: Senators Pflug, Keiser and Shin.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 2/19/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7465)

Background: The Children's Health Immunizations Linkages and Development Profile (CHILD) is Washington State's Health Promotion and Immunizations registry system designed to help promote preventive health care for the state's children. The CHILD Profile Immunization Registry allows health care providers to access patient immunization information in a shared, secure database. Health plans and local public health jurisdictions can get population-based immunization information. School districts can also access CHILD Profile immunization information. Currently, it is estimated that 80 percent of providers participate statewide in the CHILD Profile Immunization Registry. It is estimated that 61 percent of school districts in Washington participate in the registry.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): The Department of Health (DOH) is authorized to create an immunization registry program for children ages zero to 18. The following health professions must use the registry program and record all essential information involving any immunization delivered to a child: physicians, physicians assistants, osteopathic physicians, registered nurses, advanced registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses. DOH may only require physicians or physicians assistants to report immunizations recommended in the child and adolescent immunization schedules published by the federal Department of Health and Human Services. Parents may be exempt from participation in the registry.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.