WSR 98-22-083

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

(Medical Quality Assurance Commission)

[Filed November 3, 1998, 12:52 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: These rules would change the license renewal cycle for physicians and physician assistants from an annual basis to a two year cycle. In addition, it would change the reporting requirement for continuing medical education from a three year cycle to a two year cycle, to conform to the revised renewal cycle.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.71.080 and 18.71.017.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The Medical Quality Assurance Commission has received numerous comments in the past regarding the renewal cycle. Many have indicated annual renewal is a difficult cycle, both to remember as well as coordinate with due dates of other entities related to their professions. In addition, a two year renewal cycle will reduce the workload for the Renewal Representative position and free up time which could be devoted to other commission business.

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

Process for Developing New Rule: The commission will conduct two public meetings to allow interested persons to participate in the development of these rules. In addition, interested parties, which include licensees, the Washington State Medical Association, the University of Washington School of Medicine, all county medical societies, and private citizens, will be notified by mail.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. To submit written information, Susan Anthony, Program Manager, Department of Health, Medical Quality Assurance Commission, P.O. Box 47866, Olympia, WA 98504-7866, phone (360) 236-4787, fax (360) 586-4573.

October 8, 1998

Bonnie L. King

Executive Director