Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-50 WAC, Coordinated quality improvement program (CQIP), the department of health will review the CQIP chapter and will consider updating the rules for clarification, streamlining, modernization, and other necessary updates for compliance with state statute.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The rules in chapter 246-50 WAC provide criteria and an approval process for health care entities who choose to apply for a department of health (department) approved CQIP under RCW 43.70.510. Health care entities under RCW 43.70.510 include: Health care institutions and medical facilities, other than hospitals, that are licensed by the department; professional societies or organizations; health care service contractors; health maintenance organizations; health carriers approved pursuant to chapter 48.43 RCW; and any other person or entity providing health care coverage under chapter 48.42 RCW that is subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of any state agency or any subdivision. Health care provider groups may also apply for an approved CQIP. A comprehensive chapter review has not been completed since 2006. The department has determined clarification, streamlining, modernization, and other updates for compliance with state statute may be necessary to more fully implement and enforce the rules.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jovi Swanson, P.O. Box 47890, Olympia, WA 98504-7890, phone 360-545-7315, TTY 360-833-6388 or 711, email jovi.swanson@doh.wa.gov.