Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 296-20-10 [296-20-010] (5), (6), general information. The purpose of the rule making is to clarify whether or not providers can charge patients for "no show" or "missed medical appoints" related to the industrial injury on an approved claim.

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

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The proposed rules will clarify current rules on when medical providers can or can't charge injured workers for missed appoints related to the industrial injury.

     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 rule will be developed in consultation with major stakeholders and other interested parties:

     1. Workers compensation advisory committee.

     2. The industrial insurance medical advisory committee.

     3. The state's agency medical directors group.

     4. The Washington State Medical Association.

     Parties interested in these rules may contact the individual listed below. The public may also participate by commenting after amendments are proposed by providing written comments and/or testimony during the public hearing and comment process.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Aaron Huff, Department of Labor and Industries, Health Services Analysis, P.O. Box 44322, Olympia, WA 98504-4322, phone (360) 902-4259, fax (360) 902-4249.

December 22, 2009

Judy Schurke

Director

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