FINAL BILL REPORT
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. |
C 235 L 11
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning respiratory care practitioners.
Sponsors: Representatives Green, Hinkle, Cody and Moeller.
House Committee on Health Care & Wellness
Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care
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:
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: (1) podiatric physicians and surgeons; (2) ARNPs; (3) naturopaths; (4) physician assistants; and (5) osteopathic physician assistants.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 98 | 0 | |
Senate | 49 | 0 |
Effective: | July 22, 2011 |