SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5480
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of April 11, 2011
Title: An act relating to physician and physician assistants license renewal requirements.
Brief Description: Concerning submission of certain information by physicians and physician assistants at the time of license renewal.
Sponsors: Senators Conway and Keiser.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health & Long-Term Care: 2/02/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE |
Staff: Kathleen Buchli (786-7488)
Background: The Medical Quality Assurance Commission (Commission) establishes and monitors qualifications for licensure of physicians and physician assistants, and enforces practice standards and professional conduct through discipline and continuing education. Physicians and physician assistants renew their licenses on a two-year cycle, in accordance with Commission rules, and on a form approved by the Commission.
Summary of Bill: The Commission must request licensees to submit information about their current professional practice at the time of license renewal. This information may include practice setting, medical specialty, board certification, or other relevant data determined by the Commission.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill permits the Commission to request licensee information. This supports the Commission's efforts to collect demographic information about its licensees. This demographic information will be available to all stakeholders and will be used in workforce development and planning. Currently, we do not know who is practicing what and where because physicians and physician assistants are not licensed by specialty.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Maryella Jansen, Medical Commission; Carl Nelson, Washington State Medical Association.