Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health Care & Wellness Committee |
HB 1640
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning respiratory care practitioners.
Sponsors: Representatives Green, Hinkle, Cody and Moeller.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/9/11
Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).
Background:
A respiratory care practitioner (RCP) works with patients who have deficiencies and abnormalities affecting the cardiopulmonary system and associated systems. A RCP must be licensed and registered in order to practice, unless exempted, and must be under the order and qualified medical direction of a Physician.
The practice of respiratory care covers an array of procedures, including: (1) the administration of prescribed medical gases; (2) postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration; and (3) the insertion of devices to draw, analyze, infuse, or monitor pressure in blood as prescribed by a Physician or an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP).
Summary of Bill:
The types of practitioners under whose order and direction a RCP may practice are expanded to "health care practitioners" instead of "Physicians." "Health care practitioner" is defined to include:
Physicians;
Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons; and
The following professions acting within the scope of their respective licenses:
Podiatric Physicians and Surgeons;
ARNPs;
Naturopaths;
Physician Assistants; and
Osteopathic Physician Assistants.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.