title: RCW 43.70.340

text:
(1) The temporary worker housing fund is established in the custody of the state treasury. The department shall deposit all funds received under subsections (2) and (3) of this section and from the legislature to administer a temporary worker housing permitting, licensing, and inspection program conducted by the department. Disbursement from the fund shall be on authorization of the secretary of health or the secretary's designee. The fund is subject to the allotment procedure provided under chapter 43.88 RCW, but no appropriation is required for disbursements.
(2) There is imposed a fee on each operating license issued by the department to every operator of temporary worker housing that is regulated by the state board of health. In establishing the fee to be paid under this subsection the department shall consider the cost of administering a license as well as enforcing applicable state board of health rules on temporary worker housing.
(3) There is imposed a fee on each temporary worker housing building permit issued by the department to every operator of temporary worker housing as required by RCW 43.70.337. The fee shall include the cost of administering a permit as well as enforcing the department's temporary worker building code as adopted under RCW 70.114A.081.
(4) The department shall conduct a fee study for:
(a) A temporary worker housing operator's license;
(b) On-site inspections; and
(c) A plan review and building permit for new construction.
After completion of the study, the department shall adopt these fees by rule by no later than December 31, 1998.
(5) The term of the operating license and the application procedures shall be established, by rule, by the department.
[ 1998 c 37 s 7; 1990 c 253 s 3.]
Notes:
Legislative finding and purpose—1990 c 253: "The legislature finds that the demand for housing for migrant and seasonal farmworkers far exceeds the supply of adequate housing in the state of Washington. In addition, increasing numbers of these housing units are in deteriorated condition because they cannot be economically maintained and repaired.
The legislature further finds that the lack of a clear program for the regulation and inspection of farmworker housing has impeded the construction and renovation of housing units in this state.
It is the purpose of this act for the various agencies involved in the regulation of farmworker housing to coordinate and consolidate their activities to provide for efficient and effective monitoring of farmworker housing. It is intended that this action will provide greater responsiveness in dealing with public concerns over farmworker housing, and allow greater numbers of housing units to be built." [ 1990 c 253 s 1.]

catchline: Temporary worker housing inspection fund—Fees on temporary worker housing operating licenses and building permits—Licenses generally.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 43.70.400

text:
The legislature finds that head injury is a major cause of death and disability for Washington citizens. The costs of head injury treatment and rehabilitation are extensive and resultant disabilities are long and indeterminate. These costs are often borne by public programs such as medicaid. The legislature finds further that many such injuries are preventable. The legislature intends to reduce the occurrence of head injury by educating persons whose behavior may place them at risk and by regulating certain activities.
[ 1990 c 270 s 2.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Head injury prevention—Legislative finding.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 43.70.410

text:
As used in RCW 43.70.400 through 43.70.440, the term "head injury" means traumatic brain injury.
A head injury prevention program is created in the department of health. The program's functions may be integrated with those of similar programs to promote comprehensive, integrated, and effective health promotion and disease prevention.
In consultation with the traffic safety commission, the department shall, directly or by contract, identify and coordinate public education efforts currently underway within state government and among private groups to prevent traumatic brain injury, including, but not limited to, bicycle safety, pedestrian safety, bicycle passenger seat safety, motorcycle safety, motor vehicle safety, and sports safety. If the department finds that programs are not available or not in use, it may, within funds appropriated for the purpose, provide grants to promote public education efforts. Grants may be awarded only after recipients have demonstrated coordination with relevant and knowledgeable groups within their communities, including at least schools, brain injury support organizations, hospitals, physicians, traffic safety specialists, police, and the public. The department may accept grants, gifts, and donations from public or private sources to use to carry out the head injury prevention program.
The department may assess or contract for the assessment of the effectiveness of public education efforts coordinated or initiated by any agency of state government. Agencies are directed to cooperate with assessment efforts by providing access to data and program records as reasonably required. The department may seek and receive additional funds from the federal government or private sources for assessments. Assessments shall contain findings and recommendations that will improve the effectiveness of public education efforts. These findings shall be distributed among public and private groups concerned with traumatic brain injury prevention.
[ 1990 c 270 s 3.]
Notes:
Bicycle awareness program: RCW 43.43.390.

catchline: Head injury prevention—Program, generally.


title: RCW 43.70.420

text:
The department of health, the department of licensing, and the traffic safety commission shall jointly prepare information for driver license manuals, driver education programs, and driving tests to increase driver awareness of pedestrian safety, to increase driver skills in avoiding pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents, and to determine drivers' abilities to avoid pedestrian motor vehicle accidents.
[ 1990 c 270 s 4.]

catchline: Head injury prevention—Information preparation.


title: RCW 43.70.430

text:
The department shall prepare guidelines on relevant training and education regarding traumatic brain injury for health and education professionals, and relevant public safety and law enforcement officials. The department shall distribute such guidelines and any recommendations for training or educational requirements for health professionals or educators to the disciplinary authorities governed by chapter 18.130 RCW and to educational service districts established under chapter 28A.310 RCW. Specifically, all emergency medical personnel shall be trained in proper helmet removal.
[ 1990 c 270 s 6.]

catchline: Head injury prevention—Guidelines on training and education—Training of emergency medical personnel.


title: RCW 43.70.435

text:
(1) The department must develop a procedure to, beginning in the 2020-21 school year, collect the information related to the diagnosed concussions of students as described in RCW 28A.600.192.
(2) Beginning October 1, 2021, by October 1st annually thereafter, and in compliance with RCW 43.01.036, the department shall report a summary of the diagnosed concussion information received in the prior school year to the appropriate committees of the legislature and the office of the superintendent of public instruction. The report must include rates, patterns, trends, and other relevant information.
[ 2020 c 347 s 2.]

catchline: Diagnosed concussions of students—Report.


title: RCW 43.70.440

text:
This act shall be known and cited as the Head Injury Prevention Act of 1990.
[ 1990 c 270 s 1.]

catchline: Head injury prevention act—Short title—1990 c 270.


title: RCW 43.70.442

text:
(1)(a) Each of the following professionals certified or licensed under Title 18 RCW shall, at least once every six years, complete training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management that is approved, in rule, by the relevant disciplining authority:
(i) An adviser or counselor certified under chapter 18.19 RCW;
(ii) A substance use disorder professional licensed under chapter 18.205 RCW;
(iii) A marriage and family therapist licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW;
(iv) A mental health counselor licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW;
(v) An occupational therapy practitioner licensed under chapter 18.59 RCW;
(vi) A psychologist licensed under chapter 18.83 RCW;
(vii) An advanced social worker or independent clinical social worker licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW; and
(viii) A social worker associate—advanced or social worker associate—independent clinical licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW.
(b) The requirements in (a) of this subsection apply to a person holding a retired active license for one of the professions in (a) of this subsection.
(c) The training required by this subsection must be at least six hours in length, unless a disciplining authority has determined, under subsection (10)(b) of this section, that training that includes only screening and referral elements is appropriate for the profession in question, in which case the training must be at least three hours in length.
(d) Beginning July 1, 2017, the training required by this subsection must be on the model list developed under subsection (6) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (1)(d) affects the validity of training completed prior to July 1, 2017.
(2)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection:
(i) A professional listed in subsection (1)(a) of this section must complete the first training required by this section by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2014, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure or certification, whichever occurs later.
(ii) Beginning July 1, 2021, the second training for a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, a mental health counselor, an advanced social worker, an independent clinical social worker, a social worker associate-advanced, or a social worker associate-independent clinical must be either: (A) An advanced training focused on suicide management, suicide care protocols, or effective treatments; or (B) a training in a treatment modality shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal, including dialectical behavior therapy, collaborative assessment and management of suicide risk, or cognitive behavior therapy-suicide prevention. If a professional subject to the requirements of this subsection has already completed the professional's second training prior to July 1, 2021, the professional's next training must comply with this subsection. This subsection (2)(a)(ii) does not apply if the licensee demonstrates that the training required by this subsection (2)(a)(ii) is not reasonably available.
(b)(i) A professional listed in subsection (1)(a) of this section applying for initial licensure may delay completion of the first training required by this section for six years after initial licensure if he or she can demonstrate successful completion of the training required in subsection (1) of this section no more than six years prior to the application for initial licensure.
(ii) Beginning July 1, 2021, a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, a mental health counselor, an advanced social worker, an independent clinical social worker, a social worker associate-advanced, or a social worker associate-independent clinical exempt from his or her first training under (b)(i) of this subsection must comply with the requirements of (a)(ii) of this subsection for his or her first training after initial licensure. If a professional subject to the requirements of this subsection has already completed the professional's first training after initial licensure, the professional's next training must comply with this subsection (2)(b)(ii). This subsection (2)(b)(ii) does not apply if the licensee demonstrates that the training required by this subsection (2)(b)(ii) is not reasonably available.
(3) The hours spent completing training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management under this section count toward meeting any applicable continuing education or continuing competency requirements for each profession.
(4)(a) A disciplining authority may, by rule, specify minimum training and experience that is sufficient to exempt an individual professional from the training requirements in subsections (1) and (5) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (4)(a) allows a disciplining authority to provide blanket exemptions to broad categories or specialties within a profession.
(b) A disciplining authority may exempt a professional from the training requirements of subsections (1) and (5) of this section if the professional has only brief or limited patient contact.
(5)(a) Each of the following professionals credentialed under Title 18 RCW shall complete a one-time training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management that is approved by the relevant disciplining authority:
(i) A chiropractor licensed under chapter 18.25 RCW;
(ii) A naturopath licensed under chapter 18.36A RCW;
(iii) A licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or *advanced registered nurse practitioner, other than a certified registered nurse anesthetist, licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(iv) An osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, other than a holder of a postgraduate osteopathic medicine and surgery license issued under RCW 18.57.035;
(v) A physical therapist or physical therapist assistant licensed under chapter 18.74 RCW;
(vi) A physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, other than a resident holding a limited license issued under RCW 18.71.095(3);
(vii) A physician assistant licensed under chapter 18.71A RCW;
(viii) A pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW;
(ix) A dentist licensed under chapter 18.32 RCW;
(x) A dental hygienist licensed under chapter 18.29 RCW;
(xi) An athletic trainer licensed under chapter 18.250 RCW;
(xii) An optometrist licensed under chapter 18.53 RCW;
(xiii) An acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner licensed under chapter 18.06 RCW;
(xiv) A dental therapist licensed under chapter 18.265 RCW; and
(xv) A person holding a retired active license for one of the professions listed in (a)(i) through (xiv) of this subsection.
(b)(i) A professional listed in (a)(i) through (vii) of this subsection or a person holding a retired active license for one of the professions listed in (a)(i) through (vii) of this subsection must complete the one-time training by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2016, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between June 12, 2014, and January 1, 2016, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(ii) A licensed pharmacist or a person holding a retired active pharmacist license must complete the one-time training by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2017, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later.
(iii) A licensed dentist, a licensed dental hygienist, or a person holding a retired active license as a dentist shall complete the one-time training by the end of the full continuing education reporting period after August 1, 2020, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between July 23, 2017, and August 1, 2020, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b)(iii), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(iv) A licensed optometrist or a licensed acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner, or a person holding a retired active license as an optometrist or an acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner, shall complete the one-time training by the end of the full continuing education reporting period after August 1, 2021, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between August 1, 2020, and August 1, 2021, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b)(iv), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(c) The training required by this subsection must be at least six hours in length, unless a disciplining authority has determined, under subsection (10)(b) of this section, that training that includes only screening and referral elements is appropriate for the profession in question, in which case the training must be at least three hours in length.
(d) Beginning July 1, 2017, the training required by this subsection must be on the model list developed under subsection (6) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (5)(d) affects the validity of training completed prior to July 1, 2017.
(6)(a) The secretary and the disciplining authorities shall work collaboratively to develop a model list of training programs in suicide assessment, treatment, and management. Beginning July 1, 2021, for purposes of subsection (2)(a)(ii) of this section, the model list must include advanced training and training in treatment modalities shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal.
(b) The secretary and the disciplining authorities shall update the list at least once every two years.
(c) By June 30, 2016, the department shall adopt rules establishing minimum standards for the training programs included on the model list. The minimum standards must require that six-hour trainings include content specific to veterans and the assessment of issues related to imminent harm via lethal means or self-injurious behaviors and that three-hour trainings for pharmacists or dentists include content related to the assessment of issues related to imminent harm via lethal means. By July 1, 2024, the minimum standards must be updated to require that both the six-hour and three-hour trainings include content specific to the availability of and the services offered by the 988 crisis hotline and the behavioral health crisis response and suicide prevention system and best practices for assisting persons with accessing the 988 crisis hotline and the system. Beginning September 1, 2024, trainings submitted to the department for review and approval must include the updated information in the minimum standards for the model list as well as all subsequent submissions. When adopting the rules required under this subsection (6)(c), the department shall:
(i) Consult with the affected disciplining authorities, public and private institutions of higher education, educators, experts in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, the Washington department of veterans affairs, and affected professional associations; and
(ii) Consider standards related to the best practices registry of the American foundation for suicide prevention and the suicide prevention resource center.
(d) Beginning January 1, 2017:
(i) The model list must include only trainings that meet the minimum standards established in the rules adopted under (c) of this subsection and any three-hour trainings that met the requirements of this section on or before July 24, 2015;
(ii) The model list must include six-hour trainings in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, and three-hour trainings that include only screening and referral elements; and
(iii) A person or entity providing the training required in this section may petition the department for inclusion on the model list. The department shall add the training to the list only if the department determines that the training meets the minimum standards established in the rules adopted under (c) of this subsection.
(e) By January 1, 2021, the department shall adopt minimum standards for advanced training and training in treatment modalities shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal. Beginning July 1, 2021, all such training on the model list must meet the minimum standards. When adopting the minimum standards, the department must consult with the affected disciplining authorities, public and private institutions of higher education, educators, experts in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, the Washington department of veterans affairs, and affected professional associations.
(7) The department shall provide the health profession training standards created in this section to the professional educator standards board as a model in meeting the requirements of RCW 28A.410.226 and provide technical assistance, as requested, in the review and evaluation of educator training programs. The educator training programs approved by the professional educator standards board may be included in the department's model list.
(8) Nothing in this section may be interpreted to expand or limit the scope of practice of any profession regulated under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(9) The secretary and the disciplining authorities affected by this section shall adopt any rules necessary to implement this section.
(10) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Disciplining authority" has the same meaning as in RCW 18.130.020.
(b) "Training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management" means empirically supported training approved by the appropriate disciplining authority that contains the following elements: Suicide assessment, including screening and referral, suicide treatment, and suicide management. However, the disciplining authority may approve training that includes only screening and referral elements if appropriate for the profession in question based on the profession's scope of practice. The board of occupational therapy may also approve training that includes only screening and referral elements if appropriate for occupational therapy practitioners based on practice setting.
(11) A state or local government employee is exempt from the requirements of this section if he or she receives a total of at least six hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management from his or her employer every six years. For purposes of this subsection, the training may be provided in one six-hour block or may be spread among shorter training sessions at the employer's discretion.
(12) An employee of a community mental health agency licensed under chapter 71.24 RCW or a chemical dependency program certified under chapter 71.24 RCW is exempt from the requirements of this section if he or she receives a total of at least six hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management from his or her employer every six years. For purposes of this subsection, the training may be provided in one six-hour block or may be spread among shorter training sessions at the employer's discretion.
[ 2023 c 460 s 22; 2023 c 454 s 4. Prior: 2020 c 229 s 1; 2020 c 80 s 30; prior: 2019 c 444 s 13; (2019 c 444 s 12 expired August 1, 2020); 2019 c 358 s 5; (2019 c 358 s 4 expired August 1, 2020); 2017 c 262 s 4; 2016 c 90 s 5; 2015 c 249 s 1; 2014 c 71 s 2; prior: 2013 c 78 s 1; 2013 c 73 s 6; 2012 c 181 s 2.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: *(1) The term "advanced registered nurse practitioner" was changed to "advanced practice registered nurse" by 2024 c 239 s 1, effective June 30, 2027.
(2) This section was amended by 2023 c 454 s 4 and by 2023 c 460 s 22, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2023 c 460 ss 1-22: See note following RCW 18.265.005.
Effective date—2020 c 229 s 1: "Section 1 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2020 c 229 s 4.]
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Effective dates—2019 c 444 ss 13 and 19: "(1) Section 13 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020.
(2) Section 19 of this act takes effect July 1, 2026." [ 2019 c 444 s 32.]
Expiration dates—2019 c 444 ss 12 and 18: "(1) Section 12 of this act expires August 1, 2020.
(2) Section 18 of this act expires July 1, 2026." [ 2019 c 444 s 33.]
Effective date—2019 c 358 s 5: "Section 5 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 358 s 8.]
Expiration date—2019 c 358 s 4: "Section 4 of this act expires August 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 358 s 7.]
Effective date—2017 c 262 s 4: "Section 4 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2017 c 262 s 7.]
Findings—Intent—2017 c 262: "The legislature finds that over one thousand one hundred suicide deaths occur each year in Washington and these suicide deaths take an enormous toll on families and communities across the state. The legislature further finds that: Sixty-five percent of all suicides, and most suicide deaths and attempts for young people ages ten to eighteen, occur using firearms and prescription medications that are easily accessible in homes; firearms are the most lethal method used in suicide and almost entirely account for more men dying by suicide than women; sixty-seven percent of all veteran deaths by suicide are by firearm; and nearly eighty percent of all deaths by firearms in Washington are suicides. The legislature further finds that there is a need for a robust public education campaign designed to raise awareness of suicide and to teach everyone the role that he or she can play in suicide prevention. The legislature further finds that important suicide prevention efforts include: Motivating households to improve safe storage practices to reduce deaths from firearms and prescription medications; decreasing barriers to prevent access to lethal means by allowing for temporary and voluntary transfers of firearms when individuals are at risk for suicide; increasing access to drug take-back sites; and making the public aware of suicide prevention steps, including recognizing warning signs, empathizing and listening, asking directly about suicide, removing dangers to ensure immediate safety, and getting help. The legislature intends by this act to create a public-private partnership fund to implement a suicide-safer home public education campaign in the coming years." [ 2017 c 262 s 1.]
Effective date—2016 c 90 s 5: "Section 5 of this act takes effect January 1, 2017." [ 2016 c 90 s 8.]
Findings—2016 c 90: "The legislature finds that: Washington's suicide rate is fourteen percent higher than the national average; on average, two young people between the ages of ten and twenty-four die by suicide each week; almost a quarter of those who die by suicide are veterans; and many of the state's rural and tribal communities have the highest suicide rates. The legislature further finds that when suicide occurs, it has devastating consequences for communities and schools, yet, according to the United States surgeon general, suicide is the nation's most preventable form of death. The legislature further finds that one of the most immediate ways to reduce the tragedy of suicide is through suicide awareness and prevention education coupled with safe storage of lethal means commonly used in suicides, such as firearms and prescription medications. The legislature further finds that encouraging firearms dealers to voluntarily participate in suicide awareness and prevention education programs and provide certain safe storage devices at cost is an important step in creating safer homes and reducing suicide deaths in the state." [ 2016 c 90 s 1.]
Findings—Intent—2014 c 71; 2012 c 181: "(1) The legislature finds that:
(a) According to the centers for disease control and prevention:
(i) In 2008, more than thirty-six thousand people died by suicide in the United States, making it the tenth leading cause of death nationally.
(ii) During 2007-2008, an estimated five hundred sixty-nine thousand people visited hospital emergency departments with self-inflicted injuries in the United States, seventy percent of whom had attempted suicide.
(iii) During 2008-2009, the average percentages of adults who thought, planned, or attempted suicide in Washington were higher than the national average.
(b) According to a national study, veterans face an elevated risk of suicide as compared to the general population, more than twice the risk among male veterans. Another study has indicated a positive correlation between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicide.
(i) Washington state is home to more than sixty thousand men and women who have deployed in support of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
(ii) Research continues on how the effects of wartime service and injuries, such as traumatic brain injury, posttraumatic stress disorder, or other service-related conditions, may increase the number of veterans who attempt suicide.
(iii) As more men and women separate from the military and transition back into civilian life, community mental health providers will become a vital resource to help these veterans and their families deal with issues that may arise.
(c) Suicide has an enormous impact on the family and friends of the victim as well as the community as a whole.
(d) Approximately ninety percent of people who die by suicide had a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of death, such as depression. Most suicide victims exhibit warning signs or behaviors prior to an attempt.
(e) Improved training and education in suicide assessment, treatment, and management has been recommended by a variety of organizations, including the United States department of health and human services and the institute of medicine.
(2) It is therefore the intent of the legislature to help lower the suicide rate in Washington by requiring certain health professionals to complete training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management as part of their continuing education, continuing competency, or recertification requirements.
(3) The legislature does not intend to expand or limit the existing scope of practice of any health professional affected by this act." [ 2014 c 71 s 1; 2012 c 181 s 1.]
Short title—2012 c 181: "This act may be known and cited as the Matt Adler suicide assessment, treatment, and management training act of 2012." [ 2012 c 181 s 4.]
PDF
RCW 43.70.442
Suicide assessment, treatment, and management training—Requirement for certain professionals—Exemptions—Model list of programs—Rules—Health profession training standards provided to the professional educator standards board. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1)(a) Each of the following professionals certified or licensed under Title 18 RCW shall, at least once every six years, complete training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management that is approved, in rule, by the relevant disciplining authority:
(i) An adviser or counselor certified under chapter 18.19 RCW;
(ii) A substance use disorder professional licensed under chapter 18.205 RCW;
(iii) A marriage and family therapist licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW;
(iv) A mental health counselor licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW;
(v) An occupational therapy practitioner licensed under chapter 18.59 RCW;
(vi) A psychologist licensed under chapter 18.83 RCW;
(vii) An advanced social worker or independent clinical social worker licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW; and
(viii) A social worker associate—advanced or social worker associate—independent clinical licensed under chapter 18.225 RCW.
(b) The requirements in (a) of this subsection apply to a person holding a retired active license for one of the professions in (a) of this subsection.
(c) The training required by this subsection must be at least six hours in length, unless a disciplining authority has determined, under subsection (10)(b) of this section, that training that includes only screening and referral elements is appropriate for the profession in question, in which case the training must be at least three hours in length.
(d) Beginning July 1, 2017, the training required by this subsection must be on the model list developed under subsection (6) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (1)(d) affects the validity of training completed prior to July 1, 2017.
(2)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection:
(i) A professional listed in subsection (1)(a) of this section must complete the first training required by this section by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2014, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure or certification, whichever occurs later.
(ii) Beginning July 1, 2021, the second training for a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, a mental health counselor, an advanced social worker, an independent clinical social worker, a social worker associate-advanced, or a social worker associate-independent clinical must be either: (A) An advanced training focused on suicide management, suicide care protocols, or effective treatments; or (B) a training in a treatment modality shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal, including dialectical behavior therapy, collaborative assessment and management of suicide risk, or cognitive behavior therapy-suicide prevention. If a professional subject to the requirements of this subsection has already completed the professional's second training prior to July 1, 2021, the professional's next training must comply with this subsection. This subsection (2)(a)(ii) does not apply if the licensee demonstrates that the training required by this subsection (2)(a)(ii) is not reasonably available.
(b)(i) A professional listed in subsection (1)(a) of this section applying for initial licensure may delay completion of the first training required by this section for six years after initial licensure if he or she can demonstrate successful completion of the training required in subsection (1) of this section no more than six years prior to the application for initial licensure.
(ii) Beginning July 1, 2021, a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, a mental health counselor, an advanced social worker, an independent clinical social worker, a social worker associate-advanced, or a social worker associate-independent clinical exempt from his or her first training under (b)(i) of this subsection must comply with the requirements of (a)(ii) of this subsection for his or her first training after initial licensure. If a professional subject to the requirements of this subsection has already completed the professional's first training after initial licensure, the professional's next training must comply with this subsection (2)(b)(ii). This subsection (2)(b)(ii) does not apply if the licensee demonstrates that the training required by this subsection (2)(b)(ii) is not reasonably available.
(3) The hours spent completing training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management under this section count toward meeting any applicable continuing education or continuing competency requirements for each profession.
(4)(a) A disciplining authority may, by rule, specify minimum training and experience that is sufficient to exempt an individual professional from the training requirements in subsections (1) and (5) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (4)(a) allows a disciplining authority to provide blanket exemptions to broad categories or specialties within a profession.
(b) A disciplining authority may exempt a professional from the training requirements of subsections (1) and (5) of this section if the professional has only brief or limited patient contact.
(5)(a) Each of the following professionals credentialed under Title 18 RCW shall complete a one-time training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management that is approved by the relevant disciplining authority:
(i) A chiropractor licensed under chapter 18.25 RCW;
(ii) A naturopath licensed under chapter 18.36A RCW;
(iii) A licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or advanced practice registered nurse, other than a certified registered nurse anesthetist, licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(iv) An osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, other than a holder of a postgraduate osteopathic medicine and surgery license issued under RCW 18.57.035;
(v) A physical therapist or physical therapist assistant licensed under chapter 18.74 RCW;
(vi) A physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, other than a resident holding a limited license issued under RCW 18.71.095(3);
(vii) A physician assistant licensed under chapter 18.71A RCW;
(viii) A pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW;
(ix) A dentist licensed under chapter 18.32 RCW;
(x) A dental hygienist licensed under chapter 18.29 RCW;
(xi) An athletic trainer licensed under chapter 18.250 RCW;
(xii) An optometrist licensed under chapter 18.53 RCW;
(xiii) An acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner licensed under chapter 18.06 RCW;
(xiv) A dental therapist licensed under chapter 18.265 RCW; and
(xv) A person holding a retired active license for one of the professions listed in (a)(i) through (xiv) of this subsection.
(b)(i) A professional listed in (a)(i) through (vii) of this subsection or a person holding a retired active license for one of the professions listed in (a)(i) through (vii) of this subsection must complete the one-time training by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2016, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between June 12, 2014, and January 1, 2016, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(ii) A licensed pharmacist or a person holding a retired active pharmacist license must complete the one-time training by the end of the first full continuing education reporting period after January 1, 2017, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later.
(iii) A licensed dentist, a licensed dental hygienist, or a person holding a retired active license as a dentist shall complete the one-time training by the end of the full continuing education reporting period after August 1, 2020, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between July 23, 2017, and August 1, 2020, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b)(iii), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(iv) A licensed optometrist or a licensed acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner, or a person holding a retired active license as an optometrist or an acupuncture and Eastern medicine practitioner, shall complete the one-time training by the end of the full continuing education reporting period after August 1, 2021, or during the first full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure, whichever is later. Training completed between August 1, 2020, and August 1, 2021, that meets the requirements of this section, other than the timing requirements of this subsection (5)(b)(iv), must be accepted by the disciplining authority as meeting the one-time training requirement of this subsection (5).
(c) The training required by this subsection must be at least six hours in length, unless a disciplining authority has determined, under subsection (10)(b) of this section, that training that includes only screening and referral elements is appropriate for the profession in question, in which case the training must be at least three hours in length.
(d) Beginning July 1, 2017, the training required by this subsection must be on the model list developed under subsection (6) of this section. Nothing in this subsection (5)(d) affects the validity of training completed prior to July 1, 2017.
(6)(a) The secretary and the disciplining authorities shall work collaboratively to develop a model list of training programs in suicide assessment, treatment, and management. Beginning July 1, 2021, for purposes of subsection (2)(a)(ii) of this section, the model list must include advanced training and training in treatment modalities shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal.
(b) The secretary and the disciplining authorities shall update the list at least once every two years.
(c) By June 30, 2016, the department shall adopt rules establishing minimum standards for the training programs included on the model list. The minimum standards must require that six-hour trainings include content specific to veterans and the assessment of issues related to imminent harm via lethal means or self-injurious behaviors and that three-hour trainings for pharmacists or dentists include content related to the assessment of issues related to imminent harm via lethal means. By July 1, 2024, the minimum standards must be updated to require that both the six-hour and three-hour trainings include content specific to the availability of and the services offered by the 988 crisis hotline and the behavioral health crisis response and suicide prevention system and best practices for assisting persons with accessing the 988 crisis hotline and the system. Beginning September 1, 2024, trainings submitted to the department for review and approval must include the updated information in the minimum standards for the model list as well as all subsequent submissions. When adopting the rules required under this subsection (6)(c), the department shall:
(i) Consult with the affected disciplining authorities, public and private institutions of higher education, educators, experts in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, the Washington department of veterans affairs, and affected professional associations; and
(ii) Consider standards related to the best practices registry of the American foundation for suicide prevention and the suicide prevention resource center.
(d) Beginning January 1, 2017:
(i) The model list must include only trainings that meet the minimum standards established in the rules adopted under (c) of this subsection and any three-hour trainings that met the requirements of this section on or before July 24, 2015;
(ii) The model list must include six-hour trainings in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, and three-hour trainings that include only screening and referral elements; and
(iii) A person or entity providing the training required in this section may petition the department for inclusion on the model list. The department shall add the training to the list only if the department determines that the training meets the minimum standards established in the rules adopted under (c) of this subsection.
(e) By January 1, 2021, the department shall adopt minimum standards for advanced training and training in treatment modalities shown to be effective in working with people who are suicidal. Beginning July 1, 2021, all such training on the model list must meet the minimum standards. When adopting the minimum standards, the department must consult with the affected disciplining authorities, public and private institutions of higher education, educators, experts in suicide assessment, treatment, and management, the Washington department of veterans affairs, and affected professional associations.
(7) The department shall provide the health profession training standards created in this section to the professional educator standards board as a model in meeting the requirements of RCW 28A.410.226 and provide technical assistance, as requested, in the review and evaluation of educator training programs. The educator training programs approved by the professional educator standards board may be included in the department's model list.
(8) Nothing in this section may be interpreted to expand or limit the scope of practice of any profession regulated under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(9) The secretary and the disciplining authorities affected by this section shall adopt any rules necessary to implement this section.
(10) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Disciplining authority" has the same meaning as in RCW 18.130.020.
(b) "Training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management" means empirically supported training approved by the appropriate disciplining authority that contains the following elements: Suicide assessment, including screening and referral, suicide treatment, and suicide management. However, the disciplining authority may approve training that includes only screening and referral elements if appropriate for the profession in question based on the profession's scope of practice. The board of occupational therapy may also approve training that includes only screening and referral elements if appropriate for occupational therapy practitioners based on practice setting.
(11) A state or local government employee is exempt from the requirements of this section if he or she receives a total of at least six hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management from his or her employer every six years. For purposes of this subsection, the training may be provided in one six-hour block or may be spread among shorter training sessions at the employer's discretion.
(12) An employee of a community mental health agency licensed under chapter 71.24 RCW or a chemical dependency program certified under chapter 71.24 RCW is exempt from the requirements of this section if he or she receives a total of at least six hours of training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management from his or her employer every six years. For purposes of this subsection, the training may be provided in one six-hour block or may be spread among shorter training sessions at the employer's discretion.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5094. Prior: 2023 c 460 s 22; 2023 c 454 s 4; prior: 2020 c 229 s 1; 2020 c 80 s 30; prior: 2019 c 444 s 13; (2019 c 444 s 12 expired August 1, 2020); 2019 c 358 s 5; (2019 c 358 s 4 expired August 1, 2020); 2017 c 262 s 4; 2016 c 90 s 5; 2015 c 249 s 1; 2014 c 71 s 2; prior: 2013 c 78 s 1; 2013 c 73 s 6; 2012 c 181 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 58 ss 5058-5170: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2023 c 460 ss 1-22: See note following RCW 18.265.005.
Effective date—2020 c 229 s 1: "Section 1 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2020 c 229 s 4.]
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Effective dates—2019 c 444 ss 13 and 19: "(1) Section 13 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020.
(2) Section 19 of this act takes effect July 1, 2026." [ 2019 c 444 s 32.]
Expiration dates—2019 c 444 ss 12 and 18: "(1) Section 12 of this act expires August 1, 2020.
(2) Section 18 of this act expires July 1, 2026." [ 2019 c 444 s 33.]
Effective date—2019 c 358 s 5: "Section 5 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 358 s 8.]
Expiration date—2019 c 358 s 4: "Section 4 of this act expires August 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 358 s 7.]
Effective date—2017 c 262 s 4: "Section 4 of this act takes effect August 1, 2020." [ 2017 c 262 s 7.]
Findings—Intent—2017 c 262: "The legislature finds that over one thousand one hundred suicide deaths occur each year in Washington and these suicide deaths take an enormous toll on families and communities across the state. The legislature further finds that: Sixty-five percent of all suicides, and most suicide deaths and attempts for young people ages ten to eighteen, occur using firearms and prescription medications that are easily accessible in homes; firearms are the most lethal method used in suicide and almost entirely account for more men dying by suicide than women; sixty-seven percent of all veteran deaths by suicide are by firearm; and nearly eighty percent of all deaths by firearms in Washington are suicides. The legislature further finds that there is a need for a robust public education campaign designed to raise awareness of suicide and to teach everyone the role that he or she can play in suicide prevention. The legislature further finds that important suicide prevention efforts include: Motivating households to improve safe storage practices to reduce deaths from firearms and prescription medications; decreasing barriers to prevent access to lethal means by allowing for temporary and voluntary transfers of firearms when individuals are at risk for suicide; increasing access to drug take-back sites; and making the public aware of suicide prevention steps, including recognizing warning signs, empathizing and listening, asking directly about suicide, removing dangers to ensure immediate safety, and getting help. The legislature intends by this act to create a public-private partnership fund to implement a suicide-safer home public education campaign in the coming years." [ 2017 c 262 s 1.]
Effective date—2016 c 90 s 5: "Section 5 of this act takes effect January 1, 2017." [ 2016 c 90 s 8.]
Findings—2016 c 90: "The legislature finds that: Washington's suicide rate is fourteen percent higher than the national average; on average, two young people between the ages of ten and twenty-four die by suicide each week; almost a quarter of those who die by suicide are veterans; and many of the state's rural and tribal communities have the highest suicide rates. The legislature further finds that when suicide occurs, it has devastating consequences for communities and schools, yet, according to the United States surgeon general, suicide is the nation's most preventable form of death. The legislature further finds that one of the most immediate ways to reduce the tragedy of suicide is through suicide awareness and prevention education coupled with safe storage of lethal means commonly used in suicides, such as firearms and prescription medications. The legislature further finds that encouraging firearms dealers to voluntarily participate in suicide awareness and prevention education programs and provide certain safe storage devices at cost is an important step in creating safer homes and reducing suicide deaths in the state." [ 2016 c 90 s 1.]
Findings—Intent—2014 c 71; 2012 c 181: "(1) The legislature finds that:
(a) According to the centers for disease control and prevention:
(i) In 2008, more than thirty-six thousand people died by suicide in the United States, making it the tenth leading cause of death nationally.
(ii) During 2007-2008, an estimated five hundred sixty-nine thousand people visited hospital emergency departments with self-inflicted injuries in the United States, seventy percent of whom had attempted suicide.
(iii) During 2008-2009, the average percentages of adults who thought, planned, or attempted suicide in Washington were higher than the national average.
(b) According to a national study, veterans face an elevated risk of suicide as compared to the general population, more than twice the risk among male veterans. Another study has indicated a positive correlation between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicide.
(i) Washington state is home to more than sixty thousand men and women who have deployed in support of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
(ii) Research continues on how the effects of wartime service and injuries, such as traumatic brain injury, posttraumatic stress disorder, or other service-related conditions, may increase the number of veterans who attempt suicide.
(iii) As more men and women separate from the military and transition back into civilian life, community mental health providers will become a vital resource to help these veterans and their families deal with issues that may arise.
(c) Suicide has an enormous impact on the family and friends of the victim as well as the community as a whole.
(d) Approximately ninety percent of people who die by suicide had a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of death, such as depression. Most suicide victims exhibit warning signs or behaviors prior to an attempt.
(e) Improved training and education in suicide assessment, treatment, and management has been recommended by a variety of organizations, including the United States department of health and human services and the institute of medicine.
(2) It is therefore the intent of the legislature to help lower the suicide rate in Washington by requiring certain health professionals to complete training in suicide assessment, treatment, and management as part of their continuing education, continuing competency, or recertification requirements.
(3) The legislature does not intend to expand or limit the existing scope of practice of any health professional affected by this act." [ 2014 c 71 s 1; 2012 c 181 s 1.]
Short title—2012 c 181: "This act may be known and cited as the Matt Adler suicide assessment, treatment, and management training act of 2012." [ 2012 c 181 s 4.]

catchline: Suicide assessment, treatment, and management training—Requirement for certain professionals—Exemptions—Model list of programs—Rules—Health profession training standards provided to the professional educator standards board. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 43.70.444

text:
(1) The secretary, in consultation with the steering committee convened in subsection (3) of this section, shall develop a Washington plan for suicide prevention. The plan must, at a minimum:
(a) Examine data relating to suicide in order to identify patterns and key demographic factors;
(b) Identify key risk and protective factors relating to suicide; and
(c) Identify goals, action areas, and implementation strategies relating to suicide prevention.
(2) When developing the plan, the secretary shall consider national research and practices employed by the federal government, tribal governments, and other states, including the national strategy for suicide prevention. The plan must be written in a manner that is accessible, and useful to, a broad audience. The secretary shall periodically update the plan as needed.
(3) The secretary shall convene a steering committee to advise him or her in the development of the Washington plan for suicide prevention. The committee must consist of representatives from the following:
(a) Experts on suicide assessment, treatment, and management;
(b) Institutions of higher education;
(c) Tribal governments;
(d) The department of social and health services;
(e) The state department of veterans affairs;
(f) Suicide prevention advocates, at least one of whom must be a suicide survivor and at least one of whom must be a survivor of a suicide attempt;
(g) Primary care providers;
(h) Local health departments or districts; and
(i) Any other organizations or groups the secretary deems appropriate.
(4) The secretary shall complete the plan no later than November 15, 2015, publish the report on the department's website, and submit copies to the governor and the relevant standing committees of the legislature.
[ 2014 c 71 s 4.]

catchline: Washington plan for suicide prevention—Steering committee—Report.


title: RCW 43.70.446

text:
(1) The suicide-safer homes project is created within the department of health for the purpose of accepting private funds for use by the suicide-safer homes task force created in *RCW 43.70.445 in developing and providing suicide education and prevention materials, training, and outreach programs to help create suicide-safer homes. The secretary may accept gifts, grants, donations, or moneys from any source for deposit in the suicide-safer homes project account created in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) The suicide-safer homes project account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. The account shall consist of funds appropriated by the legislature for the suicide-safer homes project account and all receipts from gifts, grants, bequests, devises, or other funds from public and private sources to support the activities of the suicide-safer homes project. Only the secretary of the department of health, or the secretary's designee, may authorize expenditures from the account to fund projects identified and prioritized by the suicide-safer homes task force. Funds deposited in the suicide-safer homes project account may be used for the development and production of suicide prevention materials and training programs, for providing financial incentives to encourage firearms dealers and others to participate in suicide prevention training, and to implement pilot programs involving community outreach on creating suicide-safer homes.
(3) The suicide-safer homes project account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
[ 2017 c 262 s 3.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.70.445 expired July 1, 2021.
Findings—Intent—2017 c 262: See note following RCW 43.70.442.

catchline: Suicide-safer homes project—Suicide-safer homes project account.


title: RCW 43.70.447

text:
(1) By July 1, 2020, the school of dentistry at the University of Washington shall develop a curriculum on suicide assessment, treatment, and management for dental students and licensed dentists. The curriculum must meet the minimum standards established under RCW 43.70.442 and must include material on identifying at-risk patients and limiting access to lethal means. When developing the curriculum, the school of dentistry must consult with experts on suicide assessment, treatment, and management and with the suicide-safer homes task force established in *RCW 43.70.445. The school of dentistry shall submit a progress report to the governor and the relevant committees of the legislature by July 1, 2019.
(2) The dental quality assurance commission shall, for purposes of RCW 43.70.442(4)(a), consider a dentist who has successfully completed the curriculum developed under subsection (1) of this section prior to licensure as possessing the minimum training and experience necessary to be exempt from the training requirements in RCW 43.70.442.
[ 2017 c 262 s 5.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.70.445 expired July 1, 2021.
Findings—Intent—2017 c 262: See note following RCW 43.70.442.

catchline: Suicide assessment, treatment, and management—Curriculum for dental students and dentists.


title: RCW 43.70.452

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose not to exceed two hundred thousand dollars per fiscal year, the department shall establish a pilot program to support behavioral health improvement and suicide prevention efforts for members of the agricultural industry workforce. By March 1, 2019, the pilot program shall be established in a county west of the Cascade crest that is reliant on the agricultural industry.
(2) When implementing the pilot program, the department shall consider the report of the task force on behavioral health and suicide prevention in the agricultural industry established in section 2, chapter 95, Laws of 2018.
(3) In implementing the pilot program, the department shall contract with an entity that has behavioral health and suicide prevention expertise to develop a free resource for workers in the agricultural industry. When selecting an entity, the department shall seek to use an entity that has an existing telephonic and web-based resource, including entities that have prepared similar resources for other states. The contracting entity must be responsible for constructing and hosting the free resource and linking the free resource to the websites of the department, the department of agriculture, and other relevant stakeholders.
(4) At a minimum, the free resource must:
(a) Be made publicly available through a web-based portal or a telephone support line;
(b) Provide a resource to train agricultural industry management, workers, and their family members in suicide risk recognition and referral skills;
(c) Provide a resource to build capacity within the agricultural industry to train individuals to deliver training in person;
(d) Contain model crisis protocols that address behavioral health crisis and suicide risk identification, intervention, reentry, and postvention;
(e) Contain model marketing materials and messages that promote behavioral health in the agricultural industry; and
(f) Be made available in English and Spanish.
(5) A preliminary report shall be made to the legislature on the elements and implementation of the pilot program by December 1, 2019. A final report containing information about results of the pilot program and recommendations for improving the pilot program and expanding its availability to other counties shall be made to the legislature by December 1, 2020.
[ 2018 c 95 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—2018 c 95: "(1) The legislature finds that the agricultural industry is an integral part of Washington's economy and sense of common identity, and that the behavioral health of workers in the industry and their family members is a statewide concern.
(2) Several factors related to the agricultural industry may affect the behavioral health of workers in the agricultural industry, including job-related isolation and demands, stressful work environments, the heightened potential for financial losses, lack of access to behavioral health services, and barriers to or unwillingness to seek mental health services.
(3) A 2016 report from the federal centers for disease control and prevention studied suicide data from the year 2012 and found that workers in the farming, fishing, and forestry industries had the highest rate of suicide, eighty-four and one-half suicides per one hundred thousand workers, among the occupational groups that it studied.
(4) The legislature finds that there is an urgent need to develop resources and interventions specifically targeted to helping workers in the agricultural industry and their family members manage their behavioral health needs." [ 2018 c 95 s 1.]

catchline: Agricultural industry workforce behavioral health improvement and suicide prevention—Pilot program.


title: RCW 43.70.455

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department of health hereby creates a program to ensure statewide forensic nurse coordination.
(2) The statewide forensic nurse coordination program shall:
(a) Provide technical assistance to adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner programs and forensic nurse examiner programs across the state;
(b) Identify and alleviate barriers faced by hospitals relating to creating, maintaining, or operating adult adolescent, or pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner programs or forensic nurse examiner programs;
(c) Conduct a statewide needs assessment of adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner programs and forensic nurse examiner programs;
(d) Provide and maintain centralized resources for adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiners and forensic nurse examiners;
(e) Oversee the supply, distribution, and content of Washington standardized sexual assault kits;
(f) Develop and update standards of care for forensic exams and documentation;
(g) Assess and maintain standards for forensic nurse training curriculum for ongoing and didactic training, including preceptorship, by:
(i) Providing technical assistance to promote consistent trainings across the state with variances as needed;
(ii) Providing information on trauma-informed and cultural competency standards; and
(iii) Facilitating surveys and other mechanisms to provide forensic exam patients the ability to give feedback on the patients' experiences that can be used to enhance forensic nurse training standards;
(h) Coordinate statewide forensic nurse trainings;
(i) Develop standardized forensic nurse training videos for hospitals and perform on-site trainings at hospitals;
(j) Develop plans to ensure statewide coverage and availability of adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiners and forensic nurse examiners;
(k) Maintain and collect data on the availability of adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiners and forensic nurse examiners;
(l) Coordinate with victim advocacy services;
(m) Provide organizational and capacity building support to adult, adolescent, and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner programs and forensic nurse examiner programs; and
(n) Integrate resources for victims of sexual assault into existing local or state referral hotlines.
[ 2024 c 297 s 17.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 297: See note following RCW 7.68.127.

catchline: Statewide forensic nurse coordination program.


title: RCW 43.70.460

text:
(1) The department may establish a program to purchase and maintain liability malpractice insurance for retired primary and specialty care providers who provide health care services to low-income patients. The following conditions apply to the program:
(a) Health care services shall be provided at clinics serving low-income patients that are public or private tax-exempt corporations or other established practice settings as defined by the department;
(b) Health care services provided at the clinics shall be offered to low-income patients based on their ability to pay;
(c) Retired health care providers providing health care services shall not receive compensation for their services; and
(d) The department shall contract only with a liability insurer authorized to offer liability malpractice insurance in the state.
(e) Specialists in this program will be limited to those whose malpractice insurance premiums are comparable to primary care providers.
(2) This section and RCW 43.70.470 shall not be interpreted to require a liability insurer to provide coverage to a health care provider should the insurer determine that coverage should not be offered to a health care provider because of past claims experience or for other appropriate reasons.
(3) The state and its employees who operate the program shall be immune from any civil or criminal action involving claims against clinics or health care providers that provided health care services under this section and RCW 43.70.470. This protection of immunity shall not extend to any clinic or health care provider participating in the program.
(4) The department may monitor the claims experience of retired health care providers covered by liability insurers contracting with the department.
(5) The department may provide liability insurance under chapter 113, Laws of 1992 only to the extent funds are provided for this purpose by the legislature. If there are insufficient funds to support all applications for liability insurance coverage, priority shall be given to those retired health care providers working at clinics operated by public or private tax-exempt corporations rather than clinics operated by for-profit corporations.
[ 2005 c 156 s 1; 2004 c 184 s 1; 1993 c 492 s 276; 1992 c 113 s 2.]
Notes:
Finding—1993 c 492: See note following RCW 28B.115.080.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Legislative declaration—1992 c 113: "There are a number of retired physicians who wish to provide, or are providing, health care services to low-income patients without compensation. However, the cost of obtaining malpractice insurance is a burden that is deterring them from donating their time and services in treating the health problems of the poor. The necessity of maintaining malpractice insurance for those in practice is a significant reality in today's litigious society.
A program to alleviate the onerous costs of malpractice insurance for retired physicians providing uncompensated health care services to low-income patients will encourage philanthropy and augment state resources in providing for the health care needs of those who have no access to basic health care services.
An estimated sixteen percent of the nonelderly population do not have health insurance and lack access to even basic health care services. This is especially problematic for low-income persons who are young and who are either unemployed or have entry-level jobs without health care benefits. The majority of the uninsured, however, are working adults, and some twenty-nine percent are children.
The legislature declares that this act will increase the availability of primary care to low-income persons and is in the interest of the public health and safety." [ 1992 c 113 s 1.]

catchline: Retired primary and specialty care provider liability malpractice insurance—Program authorized.


title: RCW 43.70.470

text:
The department may establish by rule the conditions of participation in the liability insurance program by retired health care providers at clinics utilizing retired health care providers for the purposes of this section and RCW 43.70.460. These conditions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) The participating health care provider associated with the clinic shall hold a valid license to practice as a physician under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW, a naturopath under chapter 18.36A RCW, a physician assistant under chapter 18.71A RCW, an *advanced registered nurse practitioner under chapter 18.79 RCW, a dentist under chapter 18.32 RCW, or other health professionals as may be deemed in short supply by the department. All health care providers must be in conformity with current requirements for licensure, including continuing education requirements;
(2) Health care shall be limited to noninvasive procedures and shall not include obstetrical care. Noninvasive procedures include injections, suturing of minor lacerations, and incisions of boils or superficial abscesses. Primary dental care shall be limited to diagnosis, oral hygiene, restoration, and extractions and shall not include orthodontia, or other specialized care and treatment;
(3) The provision of liability insurance coverage shall not extend to acts outside the scope of rendering health care services pursuant to this section and RCW 43.70.460;
(4) The participating health care provider shall limit the provision of health care services to primarily low-income persons provided that clinics may, but are not required to, provide means tests for eligibility as a condition for obtaining health care services;
(5) The participating health care provider shall not accept compensation for providing health care services from patients served pursuant to this section and RCW 43.70.460, nor from clinics serving these patients. "Compensation" shall mean any remuneration of value to the participating health care provider for services provided by the health care provider, but shall not be construed to include any nominal copayments charged by the clinic, nor reimbursement of related expenses of a participating health care provider authorized by the clinic in advance of being incurred; and
(6) The use of mediation or arbitration for resolving questions of potential liability may be used, however any mediation or arbitration agreement format shall be expressed in terms clear enough for a person with a sixth grade level of education to understand, and on a form no longer than one page in length.
[ 2020 c 80 s 31; 2005 c 156 s 2; 2004 c 184 s 2; 1993 c 492 s 277; 1992 c 113 s 3.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The term "advanced registered nurse practitioner" was changed to "advanced practice registered nurse" by 2024 c 239 s 1, effective June 30, 2027.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Finding—1993 c 492: See note following RCW 28B.115.080.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Legislative declaration—1992 c 113: See note following RCW 43.70.460.
PDF
RCW 43.70.470
Retired health care provider liability malpractice insurance—Conditions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
The department may establish by rule the conditions of participation in the liability insurance program by retired health care providers at clinics utilizing retired health care providers for the purposes of this section and RCW 43.70.460. These conditions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) The participating health care provider associated with the clinic shall hold a valid license to practice as a physician under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW, a naturopath under chapter 18.36A RCW, a physician assistant under chapter 18.71A RCW, an advanced practice registered nurse under chapter 18.79 RCW, a dentist under chapter 18.32 RCW, or other health professionals as may be deemed in short supply by the department. All health care providers must be in conformity with current requirements for licensure, including continuing education requirements;
(2) Health care shall be limited to noninvasive procedures and shall not include obstetrical care. Noninvasive procedures include injections, suturing of minor lacerations, and incisions of boils or superficial abscesses. Primary dental care shall be limited to diagnosis, oral hygiene, restoration, and extractions and shall not include orthodontia, or other specialized care and treatment;
(3) The provision of liability insurance coverage shall not extend to acts outside the scope of rendering health care services pursuant to this section and RCW 43.70.460;
(4) The participating health care provider shall limit the provision of health care services to primarily low-income persons provided that clinics may, but are not required to, provide means tests for eligibility as a condition for obtaining health care services;
(5) The participating health care provider shall not accept compensation for providing health care services from patients served pursuant to this section and RCW 43.70.460, nor from clinics serving these patients. "Compensation" shall mean any remuneration of value to the participating health care provider for services provided by the health care provider, but shall not be construed to include any nominal copayments charged by the clinic, nor reimbursement of related expenses of a participating health care provider authorized by the clinic in advance of being incurred; and
(6) The use of mediation or arbitration for resolving questions of potential liability may be used, however any mediation or arbitration agreement format shall be expressed in terms clear enough for a person with a sixth grade level of education to understand, and on a form no longer than one page in length.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5095; 2020 c 80 s 31; 2005 c 156 s 2; 2004 c 184 s 2; 1993 c 492 s 277; 1992 c 113 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 58 ss 5058-5170: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Finding—1993 c 492: See note following RCW 28B.115.080.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Legislative declaration—1992 c 113: See note following RCW 43.70.460.

catchline: Retired health care provider liability malpractice insurance—Conditions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 43.70.480

text:
The department of health shall adopt guidelines and protocols for how emergency medical personnel shall respond when summoned to the site of an injury or illness for the treatment of a person who has signed a written directive or durable power of attorney requesting that he or she not receive futile emergency medical treatment.
The guidelines shall include development of a simple form that shall be used statewide.
[ 2000 c 70 s 1; 1992 c 98 s 14.]
Notes:
Application—1992 c 98: See RCW 70.122.915.

catchline: Emergency medical personnel—Futile treatment and natural death directives—Guidelines.


title: RCW 43.70.490

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department, in collaboration with the department of social and health services, the state fire marshal's office, the superintendent of public instruction, and the Washington state council of firefighters, must review existing local training programs and training programs being used in other states and design a statewide training program that will familiarize fire department and emergency medical service personnel with the techniques, procedures, and protocols for best handling situations in which persons with disabilities are present at the scene of an emergency in order to maximize the safety of persons with disabilities, minimize the likelihood of injury to persons with disabilities, and promote the safety of all persons present. The program must include a checklist of disabilities, symptoms of such disabilities, and things to do and not to do relevant to a particular disability so fire department and emergency medical services personnel can easily and quickly determine the specific scenario into which they are entering. The department must make the training program available on the department's website for use by all fire departments and emergency medical service agencies in the state. The department must include on its website a list of public and private nonprofit disability-related agencies and organizations and the contact information of each agency and organization. Fire departments and emergency medical service agencies must ensure their employees are adequately trained in and familiarized with techniques, procedures, and protocols for best handling situations in which persons with particular disabilities are present at the scene of an emergency.
(2) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the criminal justice training commission, in consultation with the Washington state patrol and other stakeholders, must examine existing training programs and curricula related to law enforcement officers responding to an emergency where a person with a disability may be present, to ensure that those programs and curricula are consistent with best practices.
(3) For purposes of this section:
(a) Both "accident" and "emergency" mean an unforeseen combination of circumstances or a resulting situation that results in a need for assistance or relief and calls for immediate action; and
(b) "Persons with disabilities" means individuals who have been diagnosed medically to have a physical, mental, emotional, intellectual, behavioral, developmental, or sensory disability.
[ 2017 c 295 s 2.]
Notes:
Short title—2017 c 295: "This act may be known and cited as the Travis alert act." [ 2017 c 295 s 1.]

catchline: Emergency medical service personnel training program—Assistance to persons with disabilities—Requirements—Law enforcement officer training—Definitions.


title: RCW 43.70.495

text:
(1) The legislature finds that a large segment of Washington residents do not have access to critical health care services. Telemedicine is a way to increase access to health care services to those who would otherwise not have reasonable access. The legislature therefore intends to ensure that health care professionals who provide services through telemedicine, as defined in RCW 70.41.020, in cities and rural areas alike, have current information available, making it possible for them to provide telemedicine services to the entire state of Washington.
(2) Except as permitted under subsection (3) of this section, beginning January 1, 2021, a health care professional who provides clinical services through telemedicine, other than a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW or an osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, shall complete a telemedicine training. By January 1, 2020, the telemedicine collaborative shall make a telemedicine training available on its website for use by health care professionals who use telemedicine technology. If a health care professional completes the training, the health care professional shall sign and retain an attestation. The training:
(a) Must include information on current state and federal law, liability, informed consent, and other criteria established by the collaborative for the advancement of telemedicine, in collaboration with the department and the Washington state medical quality assurance commission [medical commission];
(b) Must include a question and answer methodology to demonstrate accrual of knowledge; and
(c) May be made available in electronic format and completed over the internet.
(3) A health care professional is deemed to have met the requirements of subsection (2) of this section if the health care professional:
(a) Completes an alternative telemedicine training; and
(b) Signs and retains an attestation that he or she completed the alternative telemedicine training.
(4) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Alternative telemedicine training" means training that includes components that are substantively similar to the telemedicine training developed by the telemedicine collaborative under subsection (2) of this section. "Alternative telemedicine training" may include, but is not limited to:
(i) Training offered by hospitals and other health care facilities to employees of the facility;
(ii) Continuing education courses; and
(iii) Trainings developed by a health care professional board or commission.
(b) "Health care professional" means a person licensed, registered, or certified to provide health services.
[ 2020 c 147 s 1; 2019 c 48 s 1.]

catchline: Telemedicine training for health care professionals.


title: RCW 43.70.500

text:
The department of health shall consult with health care providers and facilities, purchasers, health professional regulatory authorities under RCW 18.130.040, appropriate research and clinical experts, and consumers of health care services to identify specific practice areas where practice indicators and risk management protocols have been developed, including those that have been demonstrated to be effective among persons of color. Practice indicators shall be based upon expert consensus and best available scientific evidence. The department shall:
(1) Develop a definition of expert consensus and best available scientific evidence so that practice indicators can serve as a standard for excellence in the provision of health care services.
(2) Establish a process to identify and evaluate practice indicators and risk management protocols as they are developed by the appropriate professional, scientific, and clinical communities.
(3) Recommend the use of practice indicators and risk management protocols in quality assurance, utilization review, or provider payment to the health services commission.
[ 1993 c 492 s 410.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.

catchline: Health care services practice indicators and risk management protocols.


title: RCW 43.70.510

text:
(1)(a) Health care institutions and medical facilities, other than hospitals, that are licensed by the department, professional societies or organizations, health care service contractors, health maintenance organizations, health carriers approved pursuant to chapter 48.43 RCW, and any other person or entity providing health care coverage under chapter 48.42 RCW that is subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of any state agency or any subdivision thereof may maintain a coordinated quality improvement program for the improvement of the quality of health care services rendered to patients and the identification and prevention of medical malpractice as set forth in RCW 70.41.200.
(b) All such programs shall comply with the requirements of RCW 70.41.200(1) (a), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), and (h) as modified to reflect the structural organization of the institution, facility, professional societies or organizations, health care service contractors, health maintenance organizations, health carriers, or any other person or entity providing health care coverage under chapter 48.42 RCW that is subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of any state agency or any subdivision thereof, unless an alternative quality improvement program substantially equivalent to RCW 70.41.200(1)(a) is developed. All such programs, whether complying with the requirement set forth in RCW 70.41.200(1)(a) or in the form of an alternative program, must be approved by the department before the discovery limitations provided in subsections (3) and (4) of this section and the exemption under RCW 42.56.360(1)(c) and subsection (5) of this section shall apply. In reviewing plans submitted by licensed entities that are associated with physicians' offices, the department shall ensure that the exemption under RCW 42.56.360(1)(c) and the discovery limitations of this section are applied only to information and documents related specifically to quality improvement activities undertaken by the licensed entity.
(2) Health care provider groups of five or more providers may maintain a coordinated quality improvement program for the improvement of the quality of health care services rendered to patients and the identification and prevention of medical malpractice as set forth in RCW 70.41.200. For purposes of this section, a health care provider group may be a consortium of providers consisting of five or more providers in total. All such programs shall comply with the requirements of RCW 70.41.200(1) (a), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), and (h) as modified to reflect the structural organization of the health care provider group. All such programs must be approved by the department before the discovery limitations provided in subsections (3) and (4) of this section and the exemption under RCW 42.56.360(1)(c) and subsection (5) of this section shall apply.
(3) Any person who, in substantial good faith, provides information to further the purposes of the quality improvement and medical malpractice prevention program or who, in substantial good faith, participates on the quality improvement committee shall not be subject to an action for civil damages or other relief as a result of such activity. Any person or entity participating in a coordinated quality improvement program that, in substantial good faith, shares information or documents with one or more other programs, committees, or boards under subsection (6) of this section is not subject to an action for civil damages or other relief as a result of the activity or its consequences. For the purposes of this section, sharing information is presumed to be in substantial good faith. However, the presumption may be rebutted upon a showing of clear, cogent, and convincing evidence that the information shared was knowingly false or deliberately misleading.
(4) Information and documents, including complaints and incident reports, created specifically for, and collected and maintained by, a quality improvement committee are not subject to review or disclosure, except as provided in this section, or discovery or introduction into evidence in any civil action, and no person who was in attendance at a meeting of such committee or who participated in the creation, collection, or maintenance of information or documents specifically for the committee shall be permitted or required to testify in any civil action as to the content of such proceedings or the documents and information prepared specifically for the committee. This subsection does not preclude: (a) In any civil action, the discovery of the identity of persons involved in the medical care that is the basis of the civil action whose involvement was independent of any quality improvement activity; (b) in any civil action, the testimony of any person concerning the facts that form the basis for the institution of such proceedings of which the person had personal knowledge acquired independently of such proceedings; (c) in any civil action by a health care provider regarding the restriction or revocation of that individual's clinical or staff privileges, introduction into evidence information collected and maintained by quality improvement committees regarding such health care provider; (d) in any civil action challenging the termination of a contract by a state agency with any entity maintaining a coordinated quality improvement program under this section if the termination was on the basis of quality of care concerns, introduction into evidence of information created, collected, or maintained by the quality improvement committees of the subject entity, which may be under terms of a protective order as specified by the court; (e) in any civil action, disclosure of the fact that staff privileges were terminated or restricted, including the specific restrictions imposed, if any and the reasons for the restrictions; or (f) in any civil action, discovery and introduction into evidence of the patient's medical records required by rule of the department of health to be made regarding the care and treatment received.
(5) Information and documents created specifically for, and collected and maintained by, a quality improvement committee are exempt from disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW.
(6) A coordinated quality improvement program may share information and documents, including complaints and incident reports, created specifically for, and collected and maintained by, a quality improvement committee or a peer review committee under RCW 4.24.250 with one or more other coordinated quality improvement programs maintained in accordance with this section or with RCW 70.41.200, a coordinated quality improvement committee maintained by an ambulatory surgical facility under RCW 70.230.070, a quality assurance committee maintained in accordance with RCW 18.20.390 or 74.42.640, or a peer review committee under RCW 4.24.250, for the improvement of the quality of health care services rendered to patients and the identification and prevention of medical malpractice. The privacy protections of chapter 70.02 RCW and the federal health insurance portability and accountability act of 1996 and its implementing regulations apply to the sharing of individually identifiable patient information held by a coordinated quality improvement program. Any rules necessary to implement this section shall meet the requirements of applicable federal and state privacy laws. Information and documents disclosed by one coordinated quality improvement program to another coordinated quality improvement program or a peer review committee under RCW 4.24.250 and any information and documents created or maintained as a result of the sharing of information and documents shall not be subject to the discovery process and confidentiality shall be respected as required by subsection (4) of this section and RCW 4.24.250.
(7) The department of health shall adopt rules as are necessary to implement this section.
[ 2007 c 273 s 21. Prior: 2006 c 8 s 113; 2005 c 291 s 2; 2005 c 274 s 302; 2005 c 33 s 6; 2004 c 145 s 2; 1995 c 267 s 7; 1993 c 492 s 417.]
Notes:
Effective date—Implementation—2007 c 273: See RCW 70.230.900 and 70.230.901.
Findings—Intent—Part headings and subheadings not law—Severability—2006 c 8: See notes following RCW 5.64.010.
Findings—2005 c 33: See note following RCW 18.20.390.
Captions not law—Severability—Effective dates—1995 c 267: See notes following RCW 43.70.052.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.

catchline: Health care services coordinated quality improvement program—Rules.


title: RCW 43.70.512

text:
(1) Protecting the public's health across the state is a fundamental responsibility of the state and is accomplished through the governmental public health system. This system is comprised of the state department of health, state board of health, local health jurisdictions, sovereign tribal nations, and Indian health programs.
(2)(a) The legislature intends to define a limited statewide set of core public health services, called foundational public health services, which the governmental public health system is responsible for providing in a consistent and uniform way in every community in Washington. These services are comprised of foundational programs and cross-cutting capabilities.
(b) These governmental public health services should be delivered in ways that maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of the overall system, make best use of the public health workforce and evolving technology, and address health equity.
(c) Funding for the governmental public health system must be restructured to support foundational public health services. In restructuring, there must be efforts to both reinforce current governmental public health system capacity and implement service delivery models allowing for system stabilization and transformation.
[ 2019 c 14 s 1; 2007 c 259 s 60.]
Notes:
Subheadings not law—2007 c 259: See note following RCW 7.70.060.

catchline: Public health system—Foundational public health services—Intent.


title: RCW 43.70.515

text:
(1) With any state funding of foundational public health services, the state expects that measurable benefits will be realized to the health of communities in Washington as a result of the improved capacity of the governmental public health system. Close coordination and sharing of services are integral to increasing system capacity.
(2)(a) Funding for foundational public health services shall be appropriated to the office of financial management. The office of financial management may only allocate funding to the department if the department, after consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes pursuant to chapter 43.376 RCW, jointly certifies with a state association representing local health jurisdictions and the state board of health, to the office of financial management that they are in agreement on the distribution and uses of state foundational public health services funding across the public health system.
(b) If joint certification is provided, the department shall distribute foundational public health services funding according to the agreed-upon distribution and uses. If joint certification is not provided, appropriations for this purpose shall lapse.
(3) By October 1, 2020, the department, in partnership with sovereign tribal nations, local health jurisdictions, and the state board of health, shall report on:
(a) Service delivery models, and a plan for further implementation of successful models;
(b) Changes in capacity of the governmental public health system; and
(c) Progress made to improve health outcomes.
(4) For purposes of this section:
(a) "Foundational public health services" means a limited statewide set of defined public health services within the following areas:
(i) Control of communicable diseases and other notifiable conditions;
(ii) Chronic disease and injury prevention;
(iii) Environmental public health;
(iv) Maternal, child, and family health;
(v) Access to and linkage with medical, oral, and behavioral health services;
(vi) Vital records; and
(vii) Cross-cutting capabilities, including:
(A) Assessing the health of populations;
(B) Public health emergency planning;
(C) Communications;
(D) Policy development and support;
(E) Community partnership development; and
(F) Business competencies.
(b) "Governmental public health system" means the state department of health, state board of health, local health jurisdictions, sovereign tribal nations, and Indian health programs located within Washington.
(c) "Indian health programs" means tribally operated health programs, urban Indian health programs, tribal epidemiology centers, the American Indian health commission for Washington state, and the Northwest Portland area Indian health board.
(d) "Local health jurisdictions" means a public health agency organized under chapter 70.05, 70.08, or 70.46 RCW.
(e) "Service delivery models" means a systematic sharing of resources and function among state and local governmental public health entities, sovereign tribal nations, and Indian health programs to increase capacity and improve efficiency and effectiveness.
[ 2019 c 14 s 2.]

catchline: Foundational public health services—Funding.


title: RCW 43.70.525

text:
(1) The department, in conjunction with local health jurisdictions, shall require each local health jurisdiction to submit an immunization assessment and enhancement proposal, consistent with the standards established in the public health [services] improvement plan, to provide immunization protection to the children of the state to further reduce vaccine-preventable diseases.
(2) These plans shall include, but not be limited to:
(a) A description of the population groups in the jurisdiction that are in the greatest need of immunizations;
(b) A description of strategies to use outreach, volunteer, and other local educational resources to enhance immunization rates; and
(c) A description of the capacity required to accomplish the enhancement proposal.
(3) This section shall be implemented consistent with available funding.
(4) The secretary shall report through the public health [services] improvement plan to the health care and fiscal committees of the legislature on the status of the program and progress made toward increasing immunization rates in population groups of greatest need.
[ 1994 c 299 s 29.]
Notes:
Intent—Finding—Severability—Conflict with federal requirements—1994 c 299: See notes following RCW 74.12.400.
Immunization: RCW 28A.210.060.

catchline: Immunization assessment and enhancement proposals by local jurisdictions.


title: RCW 43.70.526

text:
The department shall develop and make available resources for expecting parents regarding recommended childhood immunizations. The resources are intended to be provided to expecting parents by their health care providers to encourage discussion on childhood immunizations and postnatal care.
[ 2016 c 141 s 1.]

catchline: Childhood immunizations—Resources for expecting parents.