WSR 15-10-027

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed April 27, 2015, 1:19 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-322 WAC, Private psychiatric and alcoholism hospitals, amending WAC 246-322-180 to clarify the authority of a psychiatric advanced registered nurse practitioner (PARNP), allopathic physician's assistant, and osteopathic physician's assistant regarding the seclusion and restraint of patients. Other technical changes made as necessary.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 71.12.670.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Clarification of a PARNP and physician assistant's authority regarding seclusion and restraint of patients may increase efficiency in private psychiatric hospitals by allowing for greater continuity of patient care and scheduling flexibility for hospitals and providers.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. The department will schedule one stakeholder workgroup. Stakeholders may also participate through the public comment and public hearing process. Notice of all rule-making activity will be sent via listservs and posted on the department of health's web site at www.doh.wa.gov/AboutUs/DepartmentofHealth/RuleMaking/RuleMakingActivity.

Additional questions may be directed to Julie Tomaro, 111 Israel Road S.W., Tumwater, WA 98501, e-mail julie.tomaro@doh.wa.gov, phone (360) 236-2937, fax (360) 236-2321.

April 24, 2015

John Wiesman DrPH, MPH

Secretary