Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 2588

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: Providing patients notice of facility fees charged by hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities.

Sponsors: Representatives Caldier, Appleton, Cody, Wylie and Kloba.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires patient notification of facility fees charged by hospitals or ambulatory surgical facilities.

Hearing Date: 1/23/18

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Upon a patient's request, a hospital must provide a patient with an estimate of the fees and charges related to a specific service, visit, or stay. A provider-based clinic that charges a facility fee must notify a patient prior to providing non-emergency services. The notice must indicate that the clinic is licensed as part of the hospital and that the patient may receive a separate charge or billing for the facility component, which may result in higher out-of-pocket expense.

Summary of Bill:

Prior to the delivery of non-emergency outpatient services, a hospital or an ambulatory surgical facility that charges a facility fee must notify a patient:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 18, 2018.

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