PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES
(Medical Assistance Administration)
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Amending WAC 388-530-1050 Pharmacy definitions, 388-530-1125 Drug rebate program, 388-530-1200 Prior authorization program, 388-530-1250 Prior authorization process, 388-530-1260 Therapeutic consultation service, and possible other related rules. In addition, the department may establish new sections within the pharmacy services chapter relating to a preferred drug list and the therapeutic interchange program.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 74.08.090, 70.14.050, 69.41.150, chapter 41.05 RCW.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The 2003 legislature directed state agencies to implement SB 6088 (chapter 29, Laws of 2003) which directs the establishment of an evidence-based prescription drug program that identifies preferred drugs, develop programs to provide prescription drugs at a reasonable price to those in need, and increase public awareness regarding their safe and cost-effective use.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The state Health Care Authority and the Department of Labor and Industries are working with the department to implement the legislative mandate.
Process for Developing New Rule: The department invites the interested public to review and comment on draft material. For information about how to participate, contact the person listed below.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Ann Myers, MAA Rules and Publications Section, P.O. Box 45533, Olympia, WA 98504, phone (360) 725-1345, fax (360) 586-9727, e-mail myersea@dshs.wa.gov.
April 14 [13], 2004
Brian H. Lindgren, Manager
Rules and Policies Assistance Unit