Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

SSB 5448

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.

Brief Description: Requiring a study of the effects long-term antibiotic therapy has on certain Lyme disease patients.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Senator Hatfield).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

  • Requires the Medical Quality Assurance Commission to study the effects of long-term antibiotic therapy on patients who have been diagnosed with Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome.

Hearing Date: 3/18/15

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium and spread through tick bites. Symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and rash. An untreated infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system. Lyme Disease is generally treated with antibiotics. The persistence of symptoms after treatment is known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 11 confirmed cases of Lyme disease in Washington in 2013.

Summary of Bill:

The Medical Quality Assurance Commission (MQAC) must study the effects of long-term antibiotic therapy on patients who have been diagnosed with PTLDS. The study should include a review of:

The MQAC must report its findings to the Governor and the Legislature by December 1, 2015.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.