SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 6160

     AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES,

                        JANUARY 25, 1994

Brief Description:  Modifying credentialing of health professionals.

SPONSORS: Senators Talmadge, Moyer and McAuliffe; by request of Department of Health

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators Talmadge, Chairman; Wojahn, Vice Chairman; Deccio, Erwin, Franklin, Hargrove, McAuliffe, Moyer, Niemi, Prentice and Winsley.

Staff:  Rhoda Jones (786‑7198)

Hearing Dates: January 25, 1994

BACKGROUND:

Currently, the laws governing examinations for veterinarians, optometrists and chiropractors can be interpreted to require these professions individually prepare, conduct and grade examinations. 

SUMMARY:

Language governing examinations for veterinarians, optometrists and chiropractors is changed, permitting the use of national exams by the boards of these professions. National exams are being used now, but this revision in statutory language clarifies their ability to do so.

There is a trend in these professions away from producing local exams because national associations have greater resources than states to provide valid, well-documented and defensible exams.  Further, these help facilitate transfer of licensees between states.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill allows these professions to use national and regional exams and reduce the cost of creating new ones individually.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Gail Zimmerman, Department of Health (pro)