PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-322 WAC, revising and updating rules for private psychiatric and alcoholism hospitals.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 71.12.670 and 43.70.040.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The psychiatric and alcoholism hospitals rules had their last major update in 1995. The department has identified a variety of references, definitions and terms in the rules that are outdated. Key portions of the rules may be revised in order to accurately reflect current care practices. In addition, operational portions of the rules may be proposed to coincide with the recently updated hospital licensing regulations (chapter 246-320 WAC). Physical environment portions of the rules will be considered for proposed incorporation of the 2010 guidelines for design and construction of healthcare facilities.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting John Hilger, Rules Coordinator, Health Professions and Facilities, 310 Israel Road S.E., Tumwater, WA 98501-7852, e-mail john.hilger@doh.wa.gov, phone (360) 236-2929, fax (360) 236-2901. The department will notify all licensees and organizations who have expressed an interest in rule-making activities. Interested parties may also submit written comments for consideration.
February 9, 2010
Mary C. Selecky
Secretary