HB 2879 - DIGEST

     Provides that a designated trauma care service is eligible for reimbursement from the health services account only for patients who:  (1) Enter the designated trauma care service after qualifying for trauma services through the trauma triage procedure developed by the department of health; and

     (2) have an injury severity score (ISS) of sixteen or greater.

     Provides that at least five million dollars from the health services account shall be dedicated annually to reimburse every hospital, facility, or health care provider authorized by the state to provide levels I and II designated trauma services.

     Directs the department of social and health services to disburse this money exclusively to cover reasonable costs of care for patients who meet charity care standards defined in RCW 70.170.020.

     Directs the department of health to conduct or cause to be conducted a study on all costs, charges, expenses, and levels of reimbursement associated with providers of trauma care services.