HB 1532 - DIGEST

Declares that the purposes of this act are: (1) To create and foster a statewide pilot project that promotes public awareness and increases knowledge about the causes of arthritis, the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management, effective prevention strategies, and pain prevention and management;

(2) To develop knowledge and enhance understanding of arthritis by disseminating underutilized but available educational materials and resources, information on research results, programs and services provided, and strategies for prevention and control to patients, health professionals, and the public;

(3) To implement and coordinate state and local pilot projects and services to reduce the public health burden of arthritis; and

(4) To provide lasting improvements in the delivery of health care for individuals with arthritis and their families, thus improving their quality of life while also containing health care costs.

Directs the department of health to contract with the arthritis foundation Washington/Alaska chapter to establish a two-year pilot project that would help reduce and prevent disability associated with arthritis by consolidating and disseminating underutilized educational materials and resources to raise public awareness, educate consumers, educate and train health professionals, teachers, and human services providers, and for other purposes.

Provides that the secretary of health shall accept grants, services, and property from the federal government, foundations, organizations, medical schools, and other entities as are available for the purposes of fulfilling the obligations of this act.

Directs the secretary of health to seek any federal waiver or waivers that are necessary to maximize funds from the federal government to implement this act.