SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6273

                    As of January 28, 1998

Title:  An act relating to the registration of surgical technologists.

Brief Description:  Providing for the registration of surgical technologists.

Sponsors:  Senators Wood, Winsley, Haugen and Fairley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long‑Term Care:  1/29/98.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff:  Joan K. Mell (786-7447)

Background:  Surgical technologists assist surgeons, primarily with preserving a sterile surgical environment.

Pursuant to recommendations from a 1996 sunrise review, the Department of Health convened a workgroup to discuss surgical assisting services.  The workgroup concluded that all individuals functioning in surgical assist roles with the exception of surgical technologists were already regulated; therefore, the State Board of Health and the Department of Health support regulation of surgical technologists to bring them under the authority of the Uniform Disciplinary Act. 

Summary of Bill:  No persons may practice or represent themselves as surgical technologists unless registered by the Department of Health. 

The department is given authority to adopt necessary rules, standards, and procedures, set fees, and administer the registration process.  Requirements for registration include:  1) certification by a nationally recognized education program;  2) graduation from an accredited educational program in surgical technology; or 3) successful completion of alternative training meeting criteria as established by the department.

Registration requirements need not be met for 90 days from the effective date of the act.

The Uniform Disciplinary Act governs issuance and denial of registration.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 23, 1998.

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