Brief Description: Concerning health care provider contracts.

Sponsors: Representatives Morrell, Serben, Rodne, Cody, Green, Campbell, Curtis, Clibborn, Kessler, Moeller, McCune and Hasegawa.

Hearing Date: 1/31/06

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Conflicts between contractors and health providers involving replacement providers, mandatory participation in all health plans, programs and arrangements, and billing disputes can be time consuming, and difficult for health providers to resolve.

Summary of Bill:

All provider contracts with contracted providers will allow them to select another licensed provider to temporarily serve in their place when they are unavailable. Contractors are prohibited from requiring providers to participate in all plans, programs, and other health plan arrangements. Provider contracts must provide for outside independent review of billing disputes. Contracts must disclose annually the complete fee schedule, detailed compensation policies and payment rules.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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