Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Ways & Means Committee |
HB 2141
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 fees for emergency medical service providers.
Sponsors: Representatives Cody and Hunter; by request of Department of Health.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 12/8/11
Staff: Amy Skei (786-7109).
Background:
The Department of Health (Department) and the various health professions boards and commissions issue credentials to about 78 types of health care providers. In 2009 there were approximately 360,000 health care providers credentialed in these fields in Washington. Each category of credentialed professionals is required to pay for the costs associated with the regulation of the profession. Fees are established by the Secretary of the Department.
Emergency medical service personnel are certified as either first responders, emergency medical technicians, intermediate life support technicians, or paramedics. There are approximately 17,400 certified emergency medical service personnel. About 40 percent of these providers are volunteers. The Department certifies these providers in three year periods and does not charge a fee for certification.
The Department issues licenses to ambulance services and aid services. Licensed services must meet personnel, vehicle, and equipment standards and comply with inspection requirements. Ambulance or aid services that are operated by a municipal corporation are exempt from licensing fees.
Summary of Bill:
The Secretary of Health must establish credentialing fees for first responders, emergency medical technicians, intermediate life support technicians, paramedics, ambulance services, and aid services.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2012.