6516 AMH HC HAGE 1

SB 6516 - H COMM AMD ADOPTED 3-1-94

By Committee on Health Care

     On page 1, strike everything after the enacting clause and insert

     "NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.  The legislature recognizes the critical importance of ensuring that all Washington residents have access to quality and affordable health care.  The legislature further recognizes that substantial improvements can be made in health care delivery when providers, including health care facilities, are encouraged to continuously strive for excellence in quality management practices, value, and consumer satisfaction.  The legislature finds that when centers of quality are highlighted and honored publicly they become examples for other health care providers to emulate, thereby further promoting the implementation of improved health care delivery processes.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 2.  There is created an award to honor and recognize cost-effective and quality health care services.  This award shall be known as the "Warren Featherstone Reid Award for Excellence in Health Care."

NEW SECTION. Sec. 3.  The governor, in conjunction with the secretary of health, shall identify and honor health care providers and facilities in Washington state who exhibit exceptional quality and value in the delivery of health services.  The award shall be given annually consistent with the availability of qualified nominees.  The secretary may appoint an advisory committee to assist in the selection of nominees, if necessary.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 4.  (1)  The department of health shall:  develop the application and approval process for the award, including deadlines for application submission; review applications against criteria; and make recommendations to the governor for final selection of award recipients.  The department is encouraged to use existing boards, committees, and professional associations to disseminate award information.

     (2)  Criteria for judging award applications shall be based upon consumer satisfaction, quality assurance, cost-effective service delivery, creative and innovative delivery practices, leadership, and other factors deemed appropriate.

     (3)  All health care providers and facilities that provide health services in Washington state are eligible to receive the award.

     (4)  This act shall be implemented consistent with the availability of funds.  The department is directed to seek, and authorized to accept, grants and gifts necessary for this purpose.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 5.  Sections 1 through 4 of this act are each added to chapter 43.06 RCW."