FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1360

                          C 64 L 95

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Addressing discriminatory practices against osteopathic physicians and surgeons.

Sponsors:  Representatives Dyer, Dellwo, Backlund and Cody.

House Committee on Health Care

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care

Background:  Osteopathic doctors are licensed under the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery to practice osteopathic medicine and surgery in this state. The tenets of osteopathy emphasize the musculo-skeletal structure of the body, and include medical treatment as well as osteopathic manipulative therapy.

Cases of discrimination have occurred against osteopathic doctors in this state with regard to practice and training privileges.

Summary:  Health maintenance organizations, professional service corporations, and hospitals are prohibited from discriminating against doctors of osteopathic medicine solely because they have been board certified or are eligible under an approved osteopathic certifying board.

Votes on Final Passage:

House     97 0

Senate    44 0

Effective:  July 23, 1995