HB 1865 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Requires the secretary to increase the licensing fee established under RCW 43.70.110 for health care professionals and facilities designated in this act by one percent of the amount of the applicable annual licensing fee. Proceeds of the patient safety fee must be dedicated to patient safety and medical error reduction efforts that have been proven to improve the quality of care provided by health care professionals and facilities.

Provides that one percent of the present value of the settlement or verdict in any action for damages based upon injuries resulting from health care shall be deducted from the settlement or verdict as a patient safety fee. Proceeds of the patient safety fee will be distributed by the department of health in the form of grants, loans, or other appropriate arrangements to support strategies that have been proven to reduce medical errors and enhance patient safety as provided in this act.

Creates the patient safety account in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the fees created in this act must be deposited into the account.