PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-239 WAC, Childbirth centers.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 18.46 RCW, RCW 43.70.040.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Childbirth center rules have not been revised since 1991. Various interested parties have requested that the rules be opened to review and potentially revise clinical issues, consultative and transfer requirements, construction review requirements, infection control issues and other parts of the rules to more accurately reflect the childbirth center practice standards.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: Interested parties will be brought together to review the current WAC and recommend to the department proposed revisions. The department will seek input and direction from several divisions within the Department of Health to assure appropriate and safe rule making.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Yvette Fox, Rules Coordinator, Facilities and Services Licensing, Department of Health, P.O. Box 47852, Olympia, WA 98504-7852, phone (360) 236-2928, fax (360) 236-2901, e-mail yvette.fox@doh.wa.gov.
September 1, 2004
M. C. Selecky
Secretary