SENATE BILL REPORT

                   HB 1360

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

            Health & Long-Term Care, March 24, 1995

Title:  An act relating to discriminatory practices against doctors of osteopathic medicine and surgery licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW.

Brief Description:  Addressing discriminatory practices against osteopathic physicians and surgeons.

Sponsors:  Representatives Dyer, Dellwo, Backlund and Cody.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long-Term Care:  3/21/95, 3/24/95 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Quigley, Chair; Wojahn, Vice Chair; Deccio, Fairley, Franklin and Wood.

Staff:  Rhoda Jones (786-7198)

Background:  Osteopathic physicians are licensed to practice osteopathic medicine and surgery in this state.  The profession emphasizes attention to the musculo-skeletal structure of the body, and includes medical treatment as well as osteopathic manipulative therapy.

There have been cases of discrimination against osteopathic doctors in this state regarding practice and training privileges.

Summary of Bill:  Health maintenance organizations, professional service corporations, and hospitals are prohibited from discriminating against doctors of osteopathic medicine who have been board certified or eligible under an approved osteopathic certifying board.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  This bill prohibits unfair treatment of osteopathic physicians in this state.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Carl Nelson, WSMA (pro); Jeff Larson, WDMA (pro).