Brief Description: Authorizing DSHS to establish cost-sharing requirements for recipients of medical programs.

Sponsors: Representatives Sommers and Sehlin.

Hearing Date:

Staff: Amy Hanson (786-7118).

Background:

The Medical Assistance Administration, within the Department of Social and Health Services (Department), administers various health care programs for qualified, low-income people, including the Medicaid program, the children's health program, the limited casualty program, and other state-funded medical care services. The Medical Assistance Administration is authorized to establish copayment, deductible, or coinsurance requirements for recipients of these medical programs.

Summary of Bill:

The bill clarifies that the Department is authorized to establish other cost-sharing requirements, which would include premiums, for recipients of medical assistance programs.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect July 1, 2003.