SB 5625 - DIGEST

     Declares that every health carrier and health care facility must permit the treating provider, in consultation with the patient, to make all decisions on patient care, rather than making the decisions through contracts or agreements between providers, health care facilities, and carriers.  These decisions must be based on accepted health care practice, as determined by the clinical guidelines established by the treating provider's health profession.

     Provides that covered eligible services may not be denied for health care services as ordered by the treating provider, in consultation with the patient, including inpatient care, in-person follow-up care after discharge from a health care facility, and outpatient care.

     Requires that at the time of discharge from a health care facility, determination of the type and location of follow-up care, including in-person follow-up care, must be made by the treating provider in consultation with the patient rather than by contract or agreement between providers, the health care facility, and the insurer.

     Provides that coverage for providers of in-person follow-up care after discharge from a health care facility must include, but need not be limited to, treating providers as defined in this section, home health agencies licensed under chapter 70.127 RCW, and registered nurses licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW.