SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5722

BYSenators Anderson and McMullen; by request of Department of Labor and Industries

Revising provisions for medical aid purchase of health care goods and services.

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 23, 1989

Senate Staff:David Cheal (786-7576)

AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Labor and Industries has the responsibility for providing health care to injured workers at the least cost consistent with promptness and quality.  As part of that responsibility, the department has the authority to enter into volume contracts for medical services.

In evaluating certain health care services and equipment prior to purchase, the department must obtain certain financial and proprietary information from the vendors.  That information could be subject to the public disclosure law with resulting damage to the potential vendor, whether the product is ultimately purchased by the department or not.

SUMMARY:

The department is given clear authority to enter into contracts for the purchase of goods, as well as health care services.

The department is given the authority to hold proprietary information supplied by potential vendors confidential and exempt from public disclosure.

Appropriation:    $300,000 from the medical aid fund.

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 22, 1989