SB 5748-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Requires the authority to promote and coordinate on a statewide basis the use and application of the best available information and data in support of: (1) The proper allocation of financial and human resources within the health care system, including public health, to best maintain and improve the health status of all Washington residents;

(2) Intelligent and informed purchasing and reimbursement decisions by state agencies, employers, health carriers, and others responsible for financing medical treatment;

(3) Treatment decisions by health care providers that result in the best health outcomes at the lowest possible cost; and

(4) Consumer choices to improve their own health, reduce the demand for medical treatment, and when treatment is necessary, receive only the most efficacious and cost-effective treatment available.

Directs the authority to design and implement a centralized technology assessment pilot project to strengthen the capacity of state health care agencies and others to obtain and evaluate scientific evidence regarding evolving health care procedures, services, devices, and technology in support of appropriate purchasing, coverage, and medical necessity decisions and criteria. A preliminary evaluation of the project is due to the legislature by May 2007 with a final evaluation by March 2008.

Appropriates the sum of one million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, from the general fund to the health care authority for the purposes of this act.

Appropriates the sum of one million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, from the general fund to the health care authority for the purposes of this act.