SB 5748 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

Creates the office of health information and planning within the authority to: (1) Make systematic, long-term improvements in the quantity and quality of information and data used to make health care decisions in both the public and private sector in Washington state; and

(2) Where appropriate, promote and coordinate the use and application of that information and data on a statewide basis in support of: (a) 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; (b) intelligent and informed purchasing and reimbursement decisions by state agencies, employers, health carriers, and others responsible for financing medical treatment; (c) treatment decisions by health care providers that result in the best health outcomes at the lowest possible cost; and (d) 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 office of health information and planning 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, and technology in support of appropriate 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.

Requires that, by January 1, 2008, a carrier offering any individual health benefit plan in this state shall offer to all individuals at least one of the model health benefit plans designed by the office of health information and planning under this act.

Requires that, by January 1, 2008, a carrier offering any small group health benefit plan in this state shall offer to all small groups at least one of the model health benefit plans designed by the office of health information and planning under this act.

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.