FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5524

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 12 L 13

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Authorizing Washington pharmacies to fill prescriptions written by physician assistants in other states.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Senators Cleveland, Schlicher, Benton, Baumgartner, Keiser, Shin and Kline).

Senate Committee on Health Care

House Committee on Health Care & Wellness

Background: State law permits some out-of-state health care providers to write prescriptions for controlled substances that may be filled by Washington State pharmacies. These health care providers include physicians, osteopathic physicians, dentists, podiatric physicians, and advanced registered nurse practitioners.

Physician assistants may prescribe controlled substances if specifically approved to do so by the Medical Quality Assurance Commission.

Summary: Washington State pharmacies are permitted to fill prescriptions for legend drugs and controlled substances that are written by out-of-state physician assistants and osteopathic physician assistants so long as the physician assistants meet the same qualifications for controlled substances prescribing as in-state physician assistants.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

49

0

House

97

0

Effective:

July 28, 2013.