Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 388-540-001 through 388-540-065, kidney disease program (state-funded).

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 74.04.050 and 74.08.090.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department is revising these rules to streamline and simplify the state-only funded kidney disease program (KDP) and to mirror Medicaid policy. Changes include, but are not limited to, revising (1) client income eligibility requirements; (2) the application process; (3) the annual deductible requirements; (4) covered services; and (5) reimbursement.

     During the course of this review, the department may identify additional changes that are required in order to improve clarity or to update policy.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule: The department invites interested stakeholders (free-standing and hospital-based kidney centers) and the 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 Wendy L. Boedigheimer, Rules Program Manager, P.O. Box 45533, Olympia, WA 98504-5533, phone (360) 725-1306, fax (360) 586-9727, TTY 1-800-848-5429, e-mail boediwl@dshs.wa.gov.

October 26, 2005

Andy Fernando, Manager

Rules and Policies Assistance Unit