SB 5304 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Expands the basic health plan.

     Creates the basic health plan subscription account.

     Requests the negotiation of a federal waiver for the state medicaid program.

     Revises provisions for expanded managed care for state employees.

     Provides health care provider conflict of interest standards.

     Designates the health care authority as the single state agent for purchasing medical care.

     Revises provisions for public health financing and governance.

     Repeals provisions of chapters 70.05, 70.08, 70.12, and 70.46 RCW.

     Provides for a state-wide personal health services data and information system.

     Addresses the issue of health professional shortages.

     Directs the insurance commissioner to create a joint underwriting authority for long-term care by July 1997.

     Establishes taxes on health maintenance organizations and health care service contractors.

     Repeals RCW 82.04.4288 and 82.04.4289.

     Makes various appropriations to carry out the purposes of the act.

     Provides for health and medical system reform.

     Creates the Washington health services commission and specifies its powers and duties.

     Requires the development of health practice guidelines.

     Mandates health care liability reforms.

     Designates eligibility requirements for certified health plans.

     Prescribes procedures for insolvency and financial failure of a health plan.

     Provides for employers' cooperative health care purchasing groups.

     Provides for state and federal anti-trust immunity.

     Directs the Washington health services commission to define the uniform benefit package.

     Provides for state resident and employer participation in a health system.

     Requires the development of a public health services improvement plan.

     Creates the state health services budget, trust fund, and accounts.

     Provides an implementation schedule.

     Designates workers' compensation medical benefits.