Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 296-23-220 Physical therapy rules, 296-23-230 Occupational therapy rules, and 296-23-250 Massage therapy rules.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 51.04.020, 51.04.030.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: This rule making is being initiated in response to a petition to amend WAC 296-23-220 to allow physician assistants to order physical therapy for the attending doctor. WAC 296-23-220, 296-23-230, and 296-23-250 will be amended to allow physician assistants to order physical therapy, occupational therapy and massage therapy for the attending doctor.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: Washington workers' compensation benefits as well as the benefits paid to victims of crimes are both governed by Title 51 RCW, Washington's Industrial Insurance Act. There are no other state or federal agencies responsible for interpreting and enforcing the provisions of this act.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Parties interested in participating in the development of these rules may contact the person listed below. The public may also participate by providing written comments during the comment period or giving oral testimony at public hearings. The rule will be developed in consultation with major stakeholders and the following interested parties: Workers' Compensation Advisory Committee, Washington State Medical Association, Washington Academy of Physician Assistants.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jami Lifka by phone (360) 902-4941, or fax (360) 902-6315, or mail Department of Labor and Industries, Office of the Medical Director, P.O. Box 44321, Olympia, WA 98504-4321.

March 22, 2005

Judy Schurke

Acting Director

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