Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Appropriations Committee

HB 2378

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 practice settings for certified chemical dependency professionals and trainees.

Sponsors: Representatives Harris, Rodne, Green, Ryu, Morrell and Roberts; by request of Department of Health.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Specifies that chemical dependency professionals and chemical dependency professional trainees certified with the Department of Health may treat patients only in programs approved by the Department of Social and Health Services.

  • Allows certified chemical dependency professionals and certified chemical dependency professional trainees who also hold a license to practice another specified health care profession to treat patients in settings other than programs approved by the Department of Social and Health Services.

Hearing Date: 2/3/14

Staff: Mary Mulholland (786-7391).

Background:

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR) certifies chemical dependency treatment programs that meet standards established by the DBHR. The Department of Health (DOH) certifies chemical dependency professionals (CDPs) and chemical dependency professional trainees (CDPTs) who meet educational, experience, and examination requirements established by the DOH.

Use of the title "certified chemical dependency professional" or "certified chemical dependency professional trainee" for individuals treating patients in settings other than programs approved by the DBHR is prohibited. Individuals who are licensed, certified, or registered under the laws of the state are not prohibited from performing services within the authorized scope of practice.

Under rules adopted by the DBHR and in the Medicaid state plan, chemical dependency counseling for patients admitted to DBHR-approved programs must be performed by DOH-certified CDPs or CDPTs.

Summary of Bill:

Individuals credentialed as CDPs or CDPTs may only treat patients in settings approved by DBHR.

Individuals who are credentialed as CDPs or CDPTs and are also licensed in any of the following professions may treat patients in settings other than those approved by DBHR:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Preliminary fiscal note available.

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