HB 1057-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Requires notice to a licensee upon receipt of a complaint, except when it would impede an investigation.

     Allows the licensee to submit a written statement for the file.

     Provides that complaints about the practice of health care providers filed after the effective date of this act are not subject to public disclosure under chapter 42.17 RCW until the report has been assessed and determined to warrant an investigation by the disciplining authority.

     Provides that reports determined not to warrant an investigation by the disciplining authority remain exempt from public disclosure but must remain in the records and tracking system of the department.

     Provides that complaints, after investigation, determined to warrant no cause for action, may be disclosed upon request with an explanation of that determination, but shall remain in the records and tracking system of the department, subject to public disclosure.

     Authorizes the secretary, on behalf of the disciplining authorities, to enter into interagency agreements for the exchange of records, which may include complaints filed but not yet assessed, with other state agencies if access to the records will assist those agencies in meeting their federal or state statutory responsibilities.