HOUSE BILL REPORT

SB 5480

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.

As Reported by House Committee On:

Health Care & Wellness

Brief Description: Concerning submission of certain information by physicians and physician assistants at the time of license renewal.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Health Care & Wellness: 3/9/11, 3/21/11 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill

Requires physicians and physician assistants to submit demographic information to the Medical Quality Assurance Commission when renewing their licenses.

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 11 members: Representatives Cody, Chair; Jinkins, Vice Chair; Schmick, Ranking Minority Member; Hinkle, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Bailey, Clibborn, Green, Harris, Kelley, Moeller and Van De Wege.

Background:

The Medical Quality Assurance Commission (MQAC) licenses, establishes professional standards for, and disciplines physicians and physician assistants. Both physicians and physician assistants must renew their licenses every two years on forms approved by the MQAC. Neither physicians nor physician assistants are licensed by specialty and the MQAC does not currently collect information on the nature of their practices.

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Summary of Bill:

The MQAC must request physicians and physician assistants to submit information about their current professional practice at the time of license renewal. This information may include practice setting, medical specialty, board certification, or other relevant data determined by the MQAC.

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Appropriation: None.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This bill is critically important to help the state plan for its future medical needs. Currently there is no way to tell how many physicians are actually practicing, where they are practicing, their specialties, or whether they are practicing out-of-state. This bill will help the state collect this information in a timely manner. The bill fits nicely with the idea of a medical home and will help planning efforts related to the implementation of federal health care reform.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Senator Conway, prime sponsor; Lisa Thatcher, Washington State Hospital Association; Leslie Burger, Medical Quality Assurance Commission; and Carl Nelson, Washington State Medical Association.