Brief Description: Identifying health care providers covered by the retired health care provider liability malpractice insurance program.

Sponsors: Representatives Green, Hinkle, Cody, Morrell, Schual-Berke, Skinner, Curtis, Clibborn, Campbell and Kagi; by request of Department of Health.

Hearing Date: 2/18/05

Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).

Background:

The Department of Health (Department) administers a program to purchase malpractice insurance for certain retired primary health care providers who volunteer their services to low-income patients. In order to qualify, the provider must be a physician, osteopathic physician, naturopath, physician assistant, osteopathic physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, dentist, or other health care provider whose profession is determined to be in short supply. Providers may only perform primary health care services which are limited to noninvasive procedures. Providers may not perform any obstetrical care or specialized care and procedures. Providers may only practice at clinics that are public or private nonprofit organizations or other practice settings as defined by the Department.

Summary of Bill:

The Department program that provides liability malpractice insurance to retired primary health care providers is expanded to include retired specialty care providers. The specialists that may be included in the program are limited to those who practice in specialties where the malpractice insurance premiums are comparable to primary care providers.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.