HB 2641 - DIGEST

      Directs the state employees' benefits board to develop a comprehensive state-purchased uniform benefit package and uniform administrative procedures that will be utilized for all state-purchased health care services.

      Modifies the membership of the board for the purposes of the development of the benefit package.

      Requires recommendations for the long-term care services and worker's compensation programs for potential inclusion in the uniform package.

      Requires establishment of organized delivery systems in communities of over fifty thousand population.

      Transfers the powers, duties, personnel, and function of the Washington basic health plan to the Washington state health care authority.

      Repeals RCW 43.131.355 and 43.131.356.

      Makes an appropriation of an unspecified amount to carry out the purposes of the act.

      Requires all residents, by July 1, 1995, to provide proof of health insurance coverage and authorizes low interest loans for the purpose of making copayments, deductibles, or payment for services not covered.

      Provides for health insurance reform to prohibit certain discriminatory practices and to require that insurers use community rating methods that more broadly pool and distribute risk.

      Requires the uniform benefit package to become the minimum benefit package required of any insurance plan after January 1, 1995.

      Establishes the state health policy council and provides for regional councils.

      Requires the council to develop a personal health services data and information system.

      Creates the health care revenue account.

      Provides additional taxes on tobacco and alcohol products to fund the account.

      Imposes taxes on the manufacture and sale of snack foods.