title: RCW 18.64.490

text:
(1) By September 1, 2005, the commission shall, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, submit a waiver request to the federal food and drug administration that will authorize the state of Washington to license Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic prescription drug wholesalers under RCW 18.64.046, thereby providing retail pharmacies licensed in Washington state the opportunity to purchase prescription drugs from approved wholesalers and pass those savings on to consumers. The waiver shall provide that:
(a) Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic prescription drug wholesalers meet the requirements of RCW 18.64.046 and any rules adopted by the commission to implement those requirements;
(b) The commission must ensure the integrity of the prescription drug products being distributed by:
(i) Requiring that prescription drugs purchased from Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic wholesalers originate only from approved manufacturing locations;
(ii) Routinely testing prescription drugs purchased from Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic wholesalers for safety;
(iii) Establishing safe labeling, tracking, and shipping procedures for prescription drugs purchased from Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic wholesalers; and
(iv) Closely monitoring compliance with RCW 18.64.046 and any rules adopted to implement the waiver;
(c) The prescription drugs purchased from Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic wholesalers must be limited to those that are not temperature sensitive or infused and for which potential savings to consumers can be demonstrated and those available through purchase by individuals only at licensed retail pharmacies;
(d) To ensure that the program benefits those consumers without insurance coverage for prescription drugs who are most in need of price relief, prescription drug purchases from pharmacies under the waiver will be limited to those not eligible for reimbursement by third party insurance coverage, whether public or private, for the particular drug being purchased; and
(e) Savings associated with purchasing prescription drugs from Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic wholesalers will be passed on to consumers.
(2) Upon approval of the federal waiver submitted in accordance with subsection (1) of this section, the commission, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, shall submit a detailed implementation plan to the governor and appropriate committees of the legislature that details the mechanisms that the commission will use to implement each component of the waiver under subsection (1) of this section.
(3) The commission shall adopt rules as necessary to implement chapter 293, Laws of 2005.
[ 2013 c 19 s 29; 2005 c 293 s 2.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2005 c 293: "The legislature finds that as consumers' prescription drug costs continue to rise, people across the state of Washington are seeking opportunities to purchase lower cost prescription drugs from Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other countries for their personal use. The state has a strong interest in promoting the safe use of prescription drugs by consumers in Washington state. To address this interest, the legislature intends to seek authorization from the federal government to license Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic prescription drug wholesalers, thereby providing licensed retail pharmacies the opportunity to purchase prescription drugs from approved wholesalers and pass those savings on to consumers, and providing consumers the opportunity to purchase prescription drugs from a trusted community pharmacist who is aware of all of their prescription drug needs." [ 2005 c 293 s 1.]
Conflict with federal requirements—2005 c 293: "If any part of this act is found to be in conflict with federal requirements that are a prescribed condition to the allocation of federal funds to the state, the conflicting part of this act is inoperative solely to the extent of the conflict and with respect to the agencies directly affected, and this finding does not affect the operation of the remainder of this act in its application to the agencies concerned. Rules adopted under this act must meet federal requirements that are a necessary condition to the receipt of federal funds by the state." [ 2005 c 293 s 3.]

catchline: Waiver request to authorize the state to license Canadian, United Kingdom, Irish, and other nondomestic prescription drug wholesalers under RCW 18.64.046—Implementation—Rules.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 18.64.500

text:
(1) Every prescription written in this state by a licensed practitioner must be written on a tamper-resistant prescription pad or paper approved by the commission.
(2) A pharmacist may not fill a written prescription from a licensed practitioner unless it is written on an approved tamper-resistant prescription pad or paper, except that a pharmacist may provide emergency supplies in accordance with the commission and other insurance contract requirements.
(3) If a hard copy of an electronic prescription is given directly to the patient, the manually signed hard copy prescription must be on approved tamper-resistant paper that meets the requirements of this section.
(4) For the purposes of this section, "tamper-resistant prescription pads or paper" means a prescription pad or paper that has been approved by the commission for use and contains the following characteristics:
(a) One or more industry-recognized features designed to prevent unauthorized copying of a completed or blank prescription form;
(b) One or more industry-recognized features designed to prevent the erasure or modification of information written on the prescription form by the practitioner; and
(c) One or more industry-recognized features designed to prevent the use of counterfeit prescription forms.
(5) Practitioners shall employ reasonable safeguards to assure against theft or unauthorized use of prescriptions.
(6) All vendors must have their tamper-resistant prescription pads or paper approved by the commission prior to the marketing or sale of pads or paper in Washington state.
(7) The commission shall create a seal of approval that confirms that a pad or paper contains all three industry-recognized characteristics required by this section. The seal must be affixed to all prescription pads or paper used in this state.
(8) The commission may adopt rules necessary for the administration of chapter 328, Laws of 2009.
(9) The tamper-resistant prescription pad or paper requirements in this section shall not apply to:
(a) Prescriptions that are transmitted to the pharmacy by telephone, facsimile, or electronic means; or
(b) Prescriptions written for inpatients of a hospital, outpatients of a hospital, residents of a long-term care facility, patients of a hospice program, inpatients or residents of a mental health facility, or individuals incarcerated in a local, state, or federal correction facility, when the health care practitioner authorized to write prescriptions, or his or her authorized agent, writes the order into the patient's medical or clinical record, the order is given directly to the pharmacy, and the patient never has the opportunity to handle the written order.
(10) All acts related to the prescribing, dispensing, and records maintenance of all prescriptions shall be in compliance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.
[ 2016 c 148 s 18; 2013 c 19 s 30; 2009 c 328 s 1.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Tamper-resistant prescription pads or paper.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 18.64.510

text:
Nothing in this chapter or in any provision of law shall be interpreted to invest the commission with the authority to regulate or establish standards regarding a jail as defined in RCW 70.48.020 that does not operate, in whole or in part, a pharmacy or a correctional pharmacy. This section does not limit the commission's authority to regulate a pharmacist that has entered into an agreement with a jail for the provision of pharmaceutical services.
[ 2013 c 19 s 31; 2009 c 411 s 2.]

catchline: Limitation on authority to regulate or establish standards regarding a jail.


title: RCW 18.64.520

text:
(1) A pharmacist may dispense not more than a ninety-day supply of a drug other than a controlled substance pursuant to a valid prescription that specifies an initial quantity of less than a ninety-day supply followed by periodic refills of that amount if all of the following requirements are satisfied:
(a) The patient has completed an initial thirty-day supply of the drug. However, if the prescription continues the same medication as previously dispensed in a ninety-day supply, the initial thirty-day supply under this subsection (1) is not required;
(b) The total quantity of dosage units dispensed does not exceed the total quantity of dosage units authorized by the prescriber on the prescription including refills;
(c) The prescriber has not specified on the prescription that dispensing the prescription in an initial amount followed by periodic refills is medically necessary; and
(d) The pharmacist is exercising his or her professional judgment.
(2) In no case may a pharmacist dispense a greater supply of a drug pursuant to this section if the prescriber personally indicates, either orally or in their own handwriting, "no change to quantity," or words of similar meaning. Nothing in this section prohibits a prescriber from checking a box on a prescription marked "no change to quantity," provided that the prescriber personally initials the box or checkmark.
(3) A pharmacist dispensing an increased supply of a drug pursuant to this section shall notify the prescriber of the increase in the quantity of dosage units dispensed.
(4) Nothing in this section may be construed to require a health benefit plan, health carrier, workers' compensation insurance plan, pharmacy benefit manager, or any other person or entity including, but not limited to, a state program or state employer, to provide coverage in a manner inconsistent with the beneficiary's or enrollee's plan benefit.
[ 2013 c 262 s 1.]

catchline: Dispensing of drug other than controlled substance—Supply limit.


title: RCW 18.64.530

text:
A pharmacist is authorized, without consulting a physician or obtaining a new prescription or refill from a physician, to provide for one early refill of a prescription for topical ophthalmic products if all of the following criteria are met:
(1) The refill is requested by a patient at or after seventy percent of the predicted days of use of:
(a) The date the original prescription was dispensed to the patient; or
(b) The date that the last refill of the prescription was dispensed to the patient;
(2) The prescriber indicates on the original prescription that a specific number of refills will be needed; and
(3) The refill does not exceed the number of refills that the prescriber indicated under subsection (2) of this section.
[ 2015 c 85 s 1.]

catchline: Topical ophthalmic products—Early refills authorized.


title: RCW 18.64.540

text:
A pharmacy that is licensed under this chapter and operated by a hospital that is licensed under chapter 70.41 RCW may provide drugs to ambulance or aid services that are licensed under RCW 18.73.130 for use associated with providing emergency medical services to patients if the following conditions are met:
(1) The hospital is located in the same or an adjacent county to the county in which the ambulance or aid service operates;
(2) A medical program director of an ambulance or aid service has requested drugs from the hospital per agreed protocol. A medical program director may only request drugs that:
(a) Are relevant to the level of service provided by the ambulance or aid service and the training of its emergency medical personnel; and
(b) Are approved as part of the ambulance or aid service prehospital patient care protocols for use by emergency medical personnel in the county in which the ambulance or aid service is located; and
(3) The provision of the drugs by the pharmacy is not contingent upon arrangements for the transport of patients to the hospital that operates the pharmacy for reasons other than the consideration of patients' medical needs and any patient care procedures.
[ 2015 c 255 s 1.]

catchline: Provision of drugs to ambulance or aid services associated with providing emergency medical services to patients.


title: RCW 18.64.550

text:
(1) A chart order must be considered a prescription if it contains:
(a) The full name of the patient;
(b) The date of issuance;
(c) The name, strength, and dosage form of the drug prescribed;
(d) Directions for use; and
(e) An authorized signature. The order must contain the prescribing practitioner's signature or the signature of the practitioner's authorized agent, including the name of the prescribing practitioner.
(2) A licensed nurse, pharmacist, or physician practicing in a long-term care facility or hospice program may act as the practitioner's agent for purposes of this chapter, without need for a written agency agreement, to document a chart order in the patient's medical record on behalf of the prescribing practitioner pending the prescribing practitioner's signature; or to communicate a prescription to a pharmacy whether telephonically, via facsimile, or electronically. The communication of a prescription to a dispenser by the prescriber's agent has the same force and effect as if communicated directly by the authorized practitioner.
(3) Nothing in this chapter prevents an authorized credentialed employee of a long-term care facility from transmitting a chart order pursuant to RCW 74.42.230, or transmitting a prescription on behalf of a resident to the extent otherwise authorized by law.
[ 2020 c 57 s 27; 2016 c 148 s 2.]

catchline: Chart order as prescription—Long-term care facilities and hospice programs.


title: RCW 18.64.560

text:
(1) A pharmacy or pharmacist may provide a limited quantity of drugs to a nursing home or hospice program without a prescription for emergency administration by authorized personnel of the facility or program pursuant to a valid prescription. The drugs so provided must be limited to those required to meet the immediate therapeutic needs of residents or patients and may not be available from another authorized source in sufficient time to prevent risk of harm by delay resulting from obtaining drugs from another source. Emergency kits must be secured in a locked room, container, or device to prevent unauthorized access and to ensure the proper environment for preservation of the drugs.
(2) In addition to or in connection with the emergency kit authorized under subsection (1) of this section, a nursing home that employs a unit dose drug distribution system may maintain a supplemental dose kit for supplemental nonemergency drug therapy. Supplemental dose kits must be secured in a locked room, container, or device to prevent unauthorized access, and to ensure the proper environment for preservation of the drugs. Administration of drugs from a supplemental dose kit must be under a valid prescription or chart order.
(3) The types and quantity of drugs appropriate to serve the resident or patient population of a nursing home or hospice program using an emergency kit or supplemental dose kit and procedures for the proper storage and security of drugs must be determined by a pharmaceutical services committee that includes a pharmacist licensed under this chapter, a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or an *advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW, and appropriate clinical or administrative personnel of the nursing home or hospice program as set forth in rules adopted by the pharmacy quality assurance commission.
(4) A registered nurse or licensed practical nurse operating under appropriate direction and supervision by a pharmacist may restock an emergency kit or supplemental dose kit to provide for safe and timely patient access.
[ 2016 c 148 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.
PDF
RCW 18.64.560
Nursing homes and hospice programs—Emergency drug kits—Supplemental dose kits. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) A pharmacy or pharmacist may provide a limited quantity of drugs to a nursing home or hospice program without a prescription for emergency administration by authorized personnel of the facility or program pursuant to a valid prescription. The drugs so provided must be limited to those required to meet the immediate therapeutic needs of residents or patients and may not be available from another authorized source in sufficient time to prevent risk of harm by delay resulting from obtaining drugs from another source. Emergency kits must be secured in a locked room, container, or device to prevent unauthorized access and to ensure the proper environment for preservation of the drugs.
(2) In addition to or in connection with the emergency kit authorized under subsection (1) of this section, a nursing home that employs a unit dose drug distribution system may maintain a supplemental dose kit for supplemental nonemergency drug therapy. Supplemental dose kits must be secured in a locked room, container, or device to prevent unauthorized access, and to ensure the proper environment for preservation of the drugs. Administration of drugs from a supplemental dose kit must be under a valid prescription or chart order.
(3) The types and quantity of drugs appropriate to serve the resident or patient population of a nursing home or hospice program using an emergency kit or supplemental dose kit and procedures for the proper storage and security of drugs must be determined by a pharmaceutical services committee that includes a pharmacist licensed under this chapter, a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or an advanced practice registered nurse licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW, and appropriate clinical or administrative personnel of the nursing home or hospice program as set forth in rules adopted by the pharmacy quality assurance commission.
(4) A registered nurse or licensed practical nurse operating under appropriate direction and supervision by a pharmacist may restock an emergency kit or supplemental dose kit to provide for safe and timely patient access.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5076; 2016 c 148 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.

catchline: Nursing homes and hospice programs—Emergency drug kits—Supplemental dose kits. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.64.570

text:
(1) A pharmacy may resupply a legend drug to a patient at a long-term care facility or hospice program pursuant to a valid chart order that is signed by the prescribing practitioner, is not time limited, and has not been discontinued.
(2) A pharmacy may outsource shared pharmacy services for a long-term care facility or hospice program to another pharmacy if the outsourcing pharmacy:
(a) Obtains approval from the long-term care facility or hospice program to outsource shared pharmacy services for the facility's or program's residents or patients; and
(b) Provides a copy of the prescription or order to the pharmacy providing the shared pharmacy services.
(3) Shared pharmacy services may be used for, but are not limited to, the purpose of ensuring that drugs or devices are attainable to meet the immediate needs of residents of the long-term care facility or hospice program, or when the outsourcing pharmacy cannot provide services on an ongoing basis. Where a pharmacy uses shared pharmacy services to have a second pharmacy provide a first dose or partial fill of a prescription or drug order to meet a patient's or resident's immediate needs, the second supplying pharmacy may dispense the first dose or partially filled prescription on a satellite basis without the outsourcing pharmacy being required to fully transfer the prescription to the supplying pharmacy. The supplying pharmacy must retain a copy of the prescription or order on file, a copy of the dispensing record or fill, and must notify the outsourcing pharmacy of the service and quantity provided.
(4) A pharmacy may repackage and dispense unused drugs returned by a long-term care facility or hospice program to the pharmacy in per-use, blister packaging, whether in unit dose or modified unit dose form, except as prohibited by federal law. The commission must adopt rules providing for the safe and efficient repackaging, reuse, and disposal of unused drugs returned to a pharmacy from a long-term care facility or hospice program. In adopting rules, the commission must take into consideration the acceptance and dispensing requirements of RCW 69.70.050 (1), (2), and (5).
[ 2016 c 148 s 4.]

catchline: Long-term care facilities and hospice programs—Legend drug resupply—Shared pharmacy services—Unused drugs.


title: RCW 18.64.580

text:
The commission must adopt reasonable, task-based standards regarding the ratio of pharmacists to pharmacy technicians in a closed door long-term care pharmacy. For the purpose of such standards, a pharmacy technician licensed under chapter 18.64A RCW may not be considered to be practicing as a pharmacy technician while performing administrative tasks not associated with immediate dispensing of drugs that may lawfully be performed by a registered pharmacy assistant. Administrative tasks not associated with immediate dispensing of drugs include but are not necessarily limited to medical records maintenance, billing, prepackaging unit dose drugs, inventory control, delivery, and processing returned drugs.
[ 2016 c 148 s 5.]

catchline: Long-term care pharmacies—Ratio of pharmacists to pharmacy technicians—Standards.


title: RCW 18.64.590

text:
The commission may adopt rules implementing RCW 18.64.550 through 18.64.580.
[ 2016 c 148 s 6.]

catchline: Long-term care facilities and hospice programs—Commission authority.


title: RCW 18.64.600

text:
(1) The license of location for a pharmacy licensed under this chapter may be extended to a remote dispensing site where technology is used to dispense medications used for the treatment of opioid use disorder or its symptoms.
(2) In order for a pharmacy to use remote dispensing sites, a pharmacy must register each separate remote dispensing site with the commission.
(3) The commission shall adopt rules that establish minimum standards for remote dispensing sites registered under this section. The minimum standards shall address who may retrieve medications for opioid use disorder stored in or at a remote dispensing site pursuant to a valid prescription or chart order. The minimum standards must require the pharmacy be responsible for stocking and maintaining a perpetual inventory of the medications for opioid use disorder stored in or at the registered remote dispensing site. The dispensing technology may be owned by either the pharmacy or the registered remote dispensing site.
(4) The secretary may adopt rules to establish a reasonable fee for obtaining and renewing a registration issued under this section.
(5) The registration issued under this section will be considered as part of the pharmacy license issued under RCW 18.64.043. If the underlying pharmacy license is not active, then the registration shall be considered inoperable by operation of law.
[ 2023 sp.s. c 1 s 37; 2020 c 244 s 2.]
Notes:
Intent—2020 c 244: "(1) The legislature declares opioid use disorder is a public health crisis. Access to medications to treat this disease needs to be made readily available, especially to vulnerable populations who may not be able to access medical care or a pharmacy.
(2) The legislature recognizes that increased access to buprenorphine, as well as additional medications necessary to aid in recovery, could benefit individuals who are suffering from opioid use disorder. The legislature further recognizes that access to pharmacies may be difficult for vulnerable populations. To increase access to medications while ensuring patient safety the legislature intends to create a new credential to allow for a pharmacy license to be extended to a remote dispensing site where technology is used to dispense medications." [ 2020 c 244 s 1.]

catchline: Opioid use disorder medications—Remote dispensing sites—Registration—Rules—Fees.


title: RCW 18.64.610

text:
The commission must adopt rules allowing the department of corrections pharmacy to accept returns of unit dose packages or full or partial multiple dose medication cards from the facilities it serves and reuse the unexpired medication.
[ 2020 c 264 s 1.]

catchline: Prescription drug return and reuse—Rules.


title: RCW 18.64.920

text:
All acts and parts of acts in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
[ 1935 c 98 s 11.]

catchline: Repealer—1935 c 98.


title: RCW 18.64A.010

text:
Terms used in this chapter shall have the meaning set forth in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
(1) "Commission" means the pharmacy quality assurance commission;
(2) "Department" means the department of health;
(3) "Pharmacist" means a person duly licensed by the commission to engage in the practice of pharmacy;
(4) "Pharmacy" means every place properly licensed by the commission where the practice of pharmacy is conducted;
(5) "Pharmacy ancillary personnel" means pharmacy technicians and pharmacy assistants;
(6) "Pharmacy technician" means:
(a) A person who is enrolled in, or who has satisfactorily completed, a commission-approved training program designed to prepare persons to perform nondiscretionary functions associated with the practice of pharmacy; or
(b) A person who is a graduate with a degree in pharmacy or medicine of a foreign school, university, or college recognized by the commission;
(7) "Pharmacy assistant" means a person registered by the commission to perform limited functions in the pharmacy;
(8) "Practice of pharmacy" means the definition given in RCW 18.64.011;
(9) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
[ 2013 c 19 s 32; 1997 c 417 s 1; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 422; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 18.64A.020

text:
(1)(a) The commission shall adopt, in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, rules fixing the classification and qualifications and the educational and training requirements for persons who may be employed as pharmacy technicians or who may be enrolled in any pharmacy technician training program. Such rules shall provide that:
(i) Licensed pharmacists shall supervise the training of pharmacy technicians;
(ii) Training programs shall assure the competence of pharmacy technicians to aid and assist pharmacy operations. Training programs shall consist of instruction and/or practical training; and
(iii) Pharmacy technicians shall complete continuing education requirements established in rule by the commission.
(b) Such rules may include successful completion of examinations for applicants for pharmacy technician certificates. If such examination rules are adopted, the commission shall prepare or determine the nature of, and supervise the grading of the examinations. The commission may approve an examination prepared or administered by a private testing agency or association of licensing authorities.
(2) The commission may disapprove or revoke approval of any training program for failure to conform to commission rules. In the case of the disapproval or revocation of approval of a training program by the commission, a hearing shall be conducted in accordance with RCW 18.64.022, and appeal may be taken in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2024 c 121 s 38; 2013 c 19 s 33; 2011 c 71 s 1; 1997 c 417 s 2; 1995 c 198 s 8; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 2.]

catchline: Rules—Qualifications and training programs.


title: RCW 18.64A.025

text:
An applicant with military training or experience satisfies the training and experience requirements of this chapter unless the commission determines that the military training or experience is not substantially equivalent to the standards of this state.
[ 2013 c 19 s 34; 2011 c 32 s 5.]

catchline: Qualifications—Military training and experience.


title: RCW 18.64A.030

text:
The commission shall adopt, in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, rules governing the extent to which pharmacy ancillary personnel may perform services associated with the practice of pharmacy. These rules shall provide for the certification of pharmacy technicians and registration of pharmacy assistants by the department at a fee determined by the secretary under RCW 43.70.250:
(1) "Pharmacy technicians" may assist in performing, under the supervision and control of a licensed pharmacist, manipulative, nondiscretionary functions associated with the practice of pharmacy and other such duties and subject to such restrictions as the commission may by rule adopt.
(2) "Pharmacy assistants" may perform, under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, duties including, but not limited to, typing of prescription labels, filing, refiling, bookkeeping, pricing, stocking, delivery, nonprofessional phone inquiries, and documentation of third-party reimbursements and other such duties and subject to such restrictions as the commission may by rule adopt.
[ 2016 sp.s. c 4 s 1; 2013 c 19 s 35; 1997 c 417 s 3; 1996 c 191 s 50; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 423; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Rules—Duties of technicians, assistants.


title: RCW 18.64A.040

text:
(1) Pharmacy ancillary personnel shall practice pharmacy in this state only after authorization by the commission and only to the extent permitted by the commission in accordance with this chapter.
(2) A pharmacist shall be assisted by pharmacy ancillary personnel in the practice of pharmacy in this state only after authorization by the commission and only to the extent permitted by the commission in accordance with this chapter: PROVIDED, That no pharmacist may supervise more than one pharmacy technician: PROVIDED FURTHER, That in pharmacies operating in connection with facilities licensed pursuant to chapter 70.41, 71.12, 71A.20, or 74.42 RCW, whether or not situated within the said facility which shall be physically separated from any area of a pharmacy where dispensing of prescriptions to the general public occurs, the ratio of pharmacists to pharmacy technicians shall be as follows: In the preparation of medicine or other materials used by patients within the facility, one pharmacist supervising no more than three pharmacy technicians; in the preparation of medicine or other materials dispensed to persons not patients within the facility, one pharmacist supervising not more than one pharmacy technician.
(3) The commission may by rule modify the standard ratios set out in subsection (2) of this section governing the utilization of pharmacy technicians by pharmacies and pharmacists. Should a pharmacy desire to use more pharmacy technicians than the standard ratios, the pharmacy must submit to the commission a pharmacy services plan for approval.
(a) The pharmacy services plan shall include, at a minimum, the following information: Pharmacy design and equipment, information systems, workflow, and quality assurance procedures. In addition, the pharmacy services plan shall demonstrate how it facilitates the provision of pharmaceutical care by the pharmacy.
(b) Prior to approval of a pharmacy services plan, the commission may require additional information to ensure appropriate oversight of pharmacy ancillary personnel.
(c) The commission may give conditional approval for pilot or demonstration projects.
(d) Variance from the approved pharmacy services plan is grounds for disciplinary action under RCW 18.64A.050.
[ 2013 c 19 s 36; 1997 c 417 s 4; 1992 c 40 s 1; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 4.]

catchline: Limitations on practice.


title: RCW 18.64A.050

text:
In addition to the grounds under RCW 18.130.170 and 18.130.180, the commission may take disciplinary action against the certificate of any pharmacy technician or the registration of any pharmacy assistant upon proof that:
(1) His or her certificate or registration was procured through fraud, misrepresentation, or deceit;
(2) He or she has been found guilty of any offense in violation of the laws of this state relating to drugs, poisons, cosmetics, or drug sundries by any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall be construed to affect or alter the provisions of RCW 9.96A.020;
(3) He or she has exhibited gross incompetency in the performance of his or her duties;
(4) He or she has willfully or repeatedly violated any of the rules and regulations of the commission or of the department;
(5) He or she has willfully or repeatedly performed duties beyond the scope of his or her certificate or registration in violation of the provisions of this chapter; or
(6) He or she has impersonated a licensed pharmacist.
[ 2016 sp.s. c 4 s 2; 2013 c 19 s 37; 1997 c 417 s 5; 1993 c 367 s 15; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 424; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Violation of chapter 69.50 RCW, the Uniform Controlled Substances Act—Suspension of license: RCW 69.50.413.

catchline: Disciplinary action against certificate or registration—Grounds.


title: RCW 18.64A.055

text:
The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs the issuance and denial of certificates and registrations and the discipline of certificants and registrants under this chapter.
[ 2016 sp.s. c 4 s 3; 1993 c 367 s 16.]

catchline: Uniform disciplinary act.


title: RCW 18.64A.060

text:
No pharmacy licensed in this state shall utilize the services of pharmacy ancillary personnel without approval of the commission.
Any pharmacy licensed in this state may apply to the commission for permission to use the services of pharmacy ancillary personnel. The application shall be accompanied by a fee and shall comply with administrative procedures and administrative requirements set pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280, shall detail the manner and extent to which the pharmacy ancillary personnel would be used and supervised, and shall provide other information in such form as the secretary may require.
The commission may approve or reject such applications. In addition, the commission may modify the proposed utilization of pharmacy ancillary personnel and approve the application as modified. Whenever it appears to the commission that pharmacy ancillary personnel are being utilized in a manner inconsistent with the approval granted, the commission may withdraw such approval. In the event a hearing is requested upon the rejection of an application, or upon the withdrawal of approval, a hearing shall be conducted in accordance with RCW 18.64.022 and appeal may be taken in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2024 c 121 s 39; 2013 c 19 s 38; 1997 c 417 s 6; 1996 c 191 s 51; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 425; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Pharmacy's application for ancillary personnel—Fee—Approval or rejection by commission—Hearing—Appeal.


title: RCW 18.64A.070

text:
(1) Persons presently assisting a pharmacist by performing the functions of a pharmacy technician may continue to do so under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist: PROVIDED, That within eighteen months after May 28, 1977, such persons shall be in compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
(2) Pharmacies presently employing persons to perform the functions of a pharmacy technician may continue to do so while obtaining commission approval for the use of certified pharmacy technicians: PROVIDED, That within eighteen months after May 28, 1977, such pharmacies shall be in compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
[ 2013 c 19 s 39; 1997 c 417 s 7; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 7.]

catchline: Persons presently acting as technicians—Pharmacies presently employing those persons.


title: RCW 18.64A.080

text:
A pharmacy or pharmacist which utilizes the services of pharmacy ancillary personnel with approval by the commission, is not aiding and abetting an unlicensed person to practice pharmacy within the meaning of chapter 18.64 RCW: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That the pharmacy or pharmacist shall retain responsibility for any act performed by pharmacy ancillary personnel in the course of employment.
[ 2013 c 19 s 40; 1997 c 417 s 8; 1977 ex.s. c 101 s 8.]

catchline: Pharmacy's or pharmacist's liability, responsibility.


title: RCW 18.71.002

text:
It is the purpose of the commission to regulate the competency and quality of professional health care providers under its jurisdiction by establishing, monitoring, and enforcing qualifications for licensing, consistent standards of practice, continuing competency mechanisms, and discipline. Rules, policies, and procedures developed by the commission must promote the delivery of quality health care to the residents of the state of Washington.
[ 2019 c 55 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 301.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 18.71.003

text:
This chapter is passed:
(1) In the exercise of the police power of the state to protect public health, to promote the welfare of the state, and to provide an adequate public agency to act as a disciplinary body for the members of the medical profession licensed to practice medicine and surgery in this state;
(2) Because the health and well-being of the people of this state are of paramount importance;
(3) Because the conduct of members of the medical profession licensed to practice medicine and surgery in this state plays a vital role in preserving the health and well-being of the people of the state; and
(4) Because the agency which now exists to handle disciplinary proceedings for members of the medical profession licensed to practice medicine and surgery in this state is ineffective and very infrequently employed, and consequently there is no effective means of handling such disciplinary proceedings when they are necessary for the protection of the public health.
[ 1955 c 202 s 1. Formerly RCW 18.72.010.]

catchline: Declaration of purpose.


title: RCW 18.71.010

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Commission" means the Washington medical commission.
(2) "Emergency medical care" or "emergency medical service" has the same meaning as in chapter 18.73 RCW.
(3) "Maintenance of certification" means the satisfactory participation in a formal recertification program to maintain board certification after initial certification from the American board of medical specialties or other accrediting organization recognized by the commission.
(4) "Resident physician" means an individual who has graduated from a school of medicine which meets the requirements set forth in RCW 18.71.055 and is serving a period of postgraduate clinical medical training sponsored by a college or university in this state or by a hospital accredited by this state. For purposes of this chapter, the term includes individuals designated as intern or medical fellow.
(5) "Secretary" means the secretary of health.
[ 2019 c 55 s 3; 2018 c 211 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 302; 1991 c 3 s 158; 1988 c 104 s 1; 1979 c 158 s 51; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 1; 1961 c 284 s 1; 1957 c 60 s 2. Prior: 1947 c 168 s 1, part; 1919 c 134 s 3, part; 1909 c 192 s 6, part; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 10008, part; prior: 1905 c 41 s 1, part; 1901 c 42 s 1, part; 1890 p 115 s 3, part; Code 1881 s 2285, part.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Uniform Anatomical Gift Act: Chapter 68.64 RCW.


title: RCW 18.71.011

text:
A person is practicing medicine if he or she does one or more of the following:
(1) Offers or undertakes to diagnose, cure, advise, or prescribe for any human disease, ailment, injury, infirmity, deformity, pain or other condition, physical or mental, real or imaginary, by any means or instrumentality;
(2) Administers or prescribes drugs or medicinal preparations to be used by any other person;
(3) Severs or penetrates the tissues of human beings;
(4) Uses on cards, books, papers, signs, or other written or printed means of giving information to the public, in the conduct of any occupation or profession pertaining to the diagnosis or treatment of human disease or conditions the designation "doctor of medicine," "physician," "surgeon," "m.d.," or any combination thereof unless such designation additionally contains the description of another branch of the healing arts for which a person has a license: PROVIDED HOWEVER, That a person licensed under this chapter shall not engage in the practice of chiropractic as defined in RCW 18.25.005.
[ 2011 c 336 s 496; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 15.]

catchline: Definition of practice of medicine—Engaging in practice of chiropractic prohibited, when.


title: RCW 18.71.015

text:
The Washington medical commission is established, consisting of thirteen individuals licensed to practice medicine in the state of Washington under this chapter, two individuals who are licensed in the state of Washington as physician assistants under chapter 18.71A RCW, and six individuals who are members of the public. At least two of the public members shall not be from the health care industry. Each congressional district now existing or hereafter created in the state must be represented by at least one physician member of the commission. The terms of office of members of the commission are not affected by changes in congressional district boundaries. Public members of the commission may not be a member of any other health care licensing board or commission, or have a fiduciary obligation to a facility rendering health services regulated by the commission, or have a material or financial interest in the rendering of health services regulated by the commission.
The members of the commission shall be appointed by the governor, and all terms of appointment shall be for four years. The governor shall consider such physician and physician assistant members who are recommended for appointment by the appropriate professional associations in the state. No member may serve more than two consecutive full terms. Each member shall hold office until a successor is appointed.
Each member of the commission must be an actual resident of this state, and, if a physician or physician assistant, must have been licensed to practice medicine in this state for at least five years.
The commission shall meet as soon as practicable after appointment and elect officers each year. Meetings shall be held at least four times a year and at such place as the commission determines and at such other times and places as the commission deems necessary. A majority of the commission members appointed and serving constitutes a quorum for the transaction of commission business.
The affirmative vote of a majority of a quorum of the commission is required to carry any motion or resolution, to adopt any rule, or to pass any measure. The commission may appoint panels consisting of at least three members. A quorum for the transaction of any business by a panel is a minimum of three members. A majority vote of a quorum of the panel is required to transact business delegated to it by the commission.
Each member of the commission shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.265 and in addition thereto shall be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in carrying out the duties of the commission in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060. Any such expenses shall be paid from funds appropriated to the department of health.
Whenever the governor is satisfied that a member of a commission has been guilty of neglect of duty, misconduct, or malfeasance or misfeasance in office, the governor shall file with the secretary of state a statement of the causes for and the order of removal from office, and the secretary shall forthwith send a certified copy of the statement of causes and order of removal to the last known post office address of the member.
Vacancies in the membership of the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term by appointment by the governor.
The members of the commission are immune from suit in an action, civil or criminal, based on its disciplinary proceedings or other official acts performed in good faith as members of the commission.
Whenever the workload of the commission requires, the commission may request that the secretary appoint pro tempore members of the commission. When serving, pro tempore members of the commission have all of the powers, duties, and immunities, and are entitled to all of the emoluments, including travel expenses, of regularly appointed members of the commission.
[ 2022 c 240 s 34; 2019 c 55 s 4; 2006 c 8 s 103; 1999 c 366 s 4; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 303. Prior: 1991 c 44 s 1; 1991 c 3 s 159; 1990 c 196 s 11; 1987 c 116 s 1; 1984 c 287 s 44; 1979 c 158 s 52; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 41; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 2; 1961 c 284 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Part headings and subheadings not law—Severability—2006 c 8: See notes following RCW 5.64.010.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Legislative findings—Severability—Effective date—1984 c 287: See notes following RCW 43.03.220.
Effective date—Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34: See notes following RCW 2.08.115.
Secretary of health or designee ex officio member of health professional licensure and disciplinary boards: RCW 43.70.300.

catchline: Commission established—Membership—Qualifications—Duties and powers—Compensation—Order of removal—Vacancies.


title: RCW 18.71.017

text:
(1) The commission may adopt such rules as are not inconsistent with the laws of this state as may be determined necessary or proper to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The commission is the successor in interest of the board of medical examiners and the medical disciplinary board. All contracts, undertakings, agreements, rules, regulations, and policies continue in full force and effect on July 1, 1994, unless otherwise repealed or rejected by this chapter or by the commission.
(2) The commission may adopt rules governing the administration of sedation and anesthesia in the offices of persons licensed under this chapter, including necessary training and equipment.
[ 2007 c 273 s 26; 2000 c 171 s 23; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 304; 1961 c 284 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective date—Implementation—2007 c 273: See RCW 70.230.900 and 70.230.901.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Rules by commission—Successor to other boards.


title: RCW 18.71.019

text:
The Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice and the issuance and denial of licenses and discipline of licensees under this chapter. When a panel of the commission revokes a license, the respondent may request review of the revocation order of the panel by the remaining members of the commission not involved in the initial investigation. The respondent's request for review must be filed within twenty days of the effective date of the order revoking the respondent's license. The review shall be scheduled for hearing by the remaining members of the commission not involved in the initial investigation within sixty days. The commission shall adopt rules establishing review procedures.
[ 1996 c 195 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 305; 1987 c 150 s 45; 1986 c 259 s 105.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Severability—1987 c 150: See RCW 18.122.901.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.

catchline: Application of Uniform Disciplinary Act—Request for review of revocation order.


title: RCW 18.71.0195

text:
(1) The contents of any report filed under RCW 18.130.070 shall be confidential and exempt from public disclosure pursuant to chapter 42.56 RCW, except that it may be reviewed (a) by the licensee involved or his or her counsel or authorized representative who may submit any additional exculpatory or explanatory statements or other information, which statements or other information shall be included in the file, or (b) by a representative of the commission, or investigator thereof, who has been assigned to review the activities of a licensed physician.
Upon a determination that a report is without merit, the commission's records may be purged of information relating to the report.
(2) Every individual, medical association, medical society, hospital, ambulatory surgical facility, medical service bureau, health insurance carrier or agent, professional liability insurance carrier, professional standards review organization, agency of the federal, state, or local government, or the entity established by RCW 18.71.300 and its officers, agents, and employees are immune from civil liability, whether direct or derivative, for providing information to the commission under RCW 18.130.070, or for which an individual health care provider has immunity under the provisions of RCW 4.24.240, 4.24.250, or 4.24.260.
[ 2007 c 273 s 24; 2005 c 274 s 227; 1998 c 132 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 328; 1986 c 259 s 117; 1979 ex.s. c 111 s 15. Formerly RCW 18.72.265.]
Notes:
Effective date—Implementation—2007 c 273: See RCW 70.230.900 and 70.230.901.
Finding—Intent—1998 c 132: "The legislature finds that the self-imposed license surcharge on physician licenses to fund a program to help physicians with chemical dependency or mental illness is not being fully spent on that program. It is the intent of the legislature that the program be fully funded and that funds collected into the impaired physician account be spent only on the program." [ 1998 c 132 s 1.]
Severability—1998 c 132: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1998 c 132 s 15.]
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.


title: RCW 18.71.021

text:
No person may practice or represent himself or herself as practicing medicine without first having a valid license to do so.
[ 1987 c 150 s 46.]
Notes:
Severability—1987 c 150: See RCW 18.122.901.

catchline: License required.


title: RCW 18.71.030

text:
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to apply to or interfere in any way with the practice of religion or any kind of treatment by prayer; nor shall anything in this chapter be construed to prohibit:
(1) The furnishing of medical assistance in cases of emergency requiring immediate attention;
(2) The domestic administration of family remedies;
(3) The administration of oral medication of any nature to students by public school district employees or private elementary or secondary school employees as provided for in chapter 28A.210 RCW;
(4) The practice of dentistry, osteopathic medicine and surgery, nursing, chiropractic, podiatric medicine and surgery, optometry, naturopathy, or any other healing art licensed under the methods or means permitted by such license;
(5) The practice of medicine in this state by any commissioned medical officer serving in the armed forces of the United States or public health service or any medical officer on duty with the United States veterans administration while such medical officer is engaged in the performance of the duties prescribed for him or her by the laws and regulations of the United States;
(6) The consultation through telemedicine or other means by a practitioner, licensed by another state or territory in which he or she resides, with a practitioner licensed in this state who has responsibility for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient within this state;
(7) The in-person practice of medicine by any practitioner licensed by another state or territory in which he or she resides, provided that such practitioner shall not open an office or appoint a place of meeting patients or receiving calls within this state;
(8) The practice of medicine by a person who is a regular student in a school of medicine approved and accredited by the commission if:
(a) The performance of such services is only pursuant to a regular course of instruction or assignments from his or her instructor; or
(b) Such services are performed only under the supervision and control of a person licensed pursuant to this chapter; or
(c)(i) Such services are performed without compensation or expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(ii) The student is under the direct supervision and control of a pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a registered nurse or *advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(iii) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (A) A physician licensed under this chapter; and (B) the person supervising the student;
(iv) The school in which the student is enrolled verifies the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(v) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services;
(9) The practice of medicine by a person serving a period of postgraduate medical training in a program of clinical medical training sponsored by a college or university in this state or by a hospital accredited in this state, however, the performance of such services shall be only pursuant to his or her duties as a trainee;
(10) The practice of medicine by a person who is regularly enrolled in a physician assistant program approved by the commission, however, the performance of such services shall be only pursuant to a regular course of instruction in said program and such services are performed only under the supervision and control of a person licensed pursuant to this chapter;
(11) The practice of medicine by a licensed physician assistant which practice is performed under the supervision of or in collaboration with a physician licensed pursuant to this chapter;
(12) The practice of medicine, in any part of this state which shares a common border with Canada and which is surrounded on three sides by water, by a physician licensed to practice medicine and surgery in Canada or any province or territory thereof;
(13) The administration of nondental anesthesia by a dentist who has completed a residency in anesthesiology at a school of medicine approved by the commission, however, a dentist allowed to administer nondental anesthesia shall do so only under authorization of the patient's attending surgeon, obstetrician, or psychiatrist, and the commission has jurisdiction to discipline a dentist practicing under this exemption and enjoin or suspend such dentist from the practice of nondental anesthesia according to this chapter and chapter 18.130 RCW;
(14) Emergency lifesaving service rendered by a physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic, as defined in RCW 18.71.200, if the emergency lifesaving service is rendered under the responsible supervision and control of a licensed physician;
(15) The provision of clean, intermittent bladder catheterization for students by public school district employees or private school employees as provided for in RCW 18.79.290 and 28A.210.280.
[ 2024 c 62 s 14; 2021 c 247 s 1; 2019 c 270 s 3; 1996 c 178 s 4; 1995 c 65 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 306. Prior: 1990 c 196 s 12; 1990 c 33 s 552; 1988 c 48 s 4; 1986 c 259 s 108; 1983 c 2 s 1; prior: 1982 c 195 s 3; 1982 c 51 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 5; 1973 1st ex.s. c 110 s 1; 1961 c 284 s 4; 1919 c 134 s 12; 1909 c 192 s 19; RRS s 10024.]
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—2024 c 62 ss 1-8, 10-18, 20-26, 28, and 30-32: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Intent—2024 c 62: See note following RCW 18.71A.020.
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Purpose—Statutory references—Severability—1990 c 33: See RCW 28A.900.100 through 28A.900.102.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.
Severability—1983 c 2: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1983 c 2 s 21.]
Severability—1982 c 195: See note following RCW 28A.210.260.
PDF
RCW 18.71.030
Exemptions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to apply to or interfere in any way with the practice of religion or any kind of treatment by prayer; nor shall anything in this chapter be construed to prohibit:
(1) The furnishing of medical assistance in cases of emergency requiring immediate attention;
(2) The domestic administration of family remedies;
(3) The administration of oral medication of any nature to students by public school district employees or private elementary or secondary school employees as provided for in chapter 28A.210 RCW;
(4) The practice of dentistry, osteopathic medicine and surgery, nursing, chiropractic, podiatric medicine and surgery, optometry, naturopathy, or any other healing art licensed under the methods or means permitted by such license;
(5) The practice of medicine in this state by any commissioned medical officer serving in the armed forces of the United States or public health service or any medical officer on duty with the United States veterans administration while such medical officer is engaged in the performance of the duties prescribed for him or her by the laws and regulations of the United States;
(6) The consultation through telemedicine or other means by a practitioner, licensed by another state or territory in which he or she resides, with a practitioner licensed in this state who has responsibility for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient within this state;
(7) The in-person practice of medicine by any practitioner licensed by another state or territory in which he or she resides, provided that such practitioner shall not open an office or appoint a place of meeting patients or receiving calls within this state;
(8) The practice of medicine by a person who is a regular student in a school of medicine approved and accredited by the commission if:
(a) The performance of such services is only pursuant to a regular course of instruction or assignments from his or her instructor; or
(b) Such services are performed only under the supervision and control of a person licensed pursuant to this chapter; or
(c)(i) Such services are performed without compensation or expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(ii) The student is under the direct supervision and control of a pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(iii) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (A) A physician licensed under this chapter; and (B) the person supervising the student;
(iv) The school in which the student is enrolled verifies the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(v) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services;
(9) The practice of medicine by a person serving a period of postgraduate medical training in a program of clinical medical training sponsored by a college or university in this state or by a hospital accredited in this state, however, the performance of such services shall be only pursuant to his or her duties as a trainee;
(10) The practice of medicine by a person who is regularly enrolled in a physician assistant program approved by the commission, however, the performance of such services shall be only pursuant to a regular course of instruction in said program and such services are performed only under the supervision and control of a person licensed pursuant to this chapter;
(11) The practice of medicine by a licensed physician assistant which practice is performed under the supervision of or in collaboration with a physician licensed pursuant to this chapter;
(12) The practice of medicine, in any part of this state which shares a common border with Canada and which is surrounded on three sides by water, by a physician licensed to practice medicine and surgery in Canada or any province or territory thereof;
(13) The administration of nondental anesthesia by a dentist who has completed a residency in anesthesiology at a school of medicine approved by the commission, however, a dentist allowed to administer nondental anesthesia shall do so only under authorization of the patient's attending surgeon, obstetrician, or psychiatrist, and the commission has jurisdiction to discipline a dentist practicing under this exemption and enjoin or suspend such dentist from the practice of nondental anesthesia according to this chapter and chapter 18.130 RCW;
(14) Emergency lifesaving service rendered by a physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic, as defined in RCW 18.71.200, if the emergency lifesaving service is rendered under the responsible supervision and control of a licensed physician;
(15) The provision of clean, intermittent bladder catheterization for students by public school district employees or private school employees as provided for in RCW 18.79.290 and 28A.210.280.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5077; 2024 c 62 s 14; 2021 c 247 s 1; 2019 c 270 s 3; 1996 c 178 s 4; 1995 c 65 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 306. Prior: 1990 c 196 s 12; 1990 c 33 s 552; 1988 c 48 s 4; 1986 c 259 s 108; 1983 c 2 s 1; prior: 1982 c 195 s 3; 1982 c 51 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 5; 1973 1st ex.s. c 110 s 1; 1961 c 284 s 4; 1919 c 134 s 12; 1909 c 192 s 19; RRS s 10024.]
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—2024 c 62 ss 1-8, 10-18, 20-26, 28, and 30-32: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Intent—2024 c 62: See note following RCW 18.71A.020.
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Purpose—Statutory references—Severability—1990 c 33: See RCW 28A.900.100 through 28A.900.102.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.
Severability—1983 c 2: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1983 c 2 s 21.]
Severability—1982 c 195: See note following RCW 28A.210.260.

catchline: Exemptions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.71.040

text:
Every applicant for a license to practice medicine and surgery shall pay a fee determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250.
[ 2003 c 275 s 1; 1991 c 3 s 160; 1985 c 322 s 1. Prior: 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 30 s 61; 1955 c 202 s 35; prior: 1941 c 166 s 1, part; 1913 c 82 s 1, part; 1909 c 192 s 7, part; Rem. Supp. 1941 s 10010-1, part.]

catchline: Application—Fee.


title: RCW 18.71.050

text:
(1) Each applicant who has graduated from a school of medicine located in any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Dominion of Canada, shall file an application for licensure with the commission on a form prepared by the secretary with the approval of the commission. Each applicant shall furnish proof satisfactory to the commission of the following:
(a) That the applicant has attended and graduated from a school of medicine approved by the commission;
(b) That the applicant has completed two years of postgraduate medical training in a program acceptable to the commission, provided that applicants graduating before July 28, 1985, may complete only one year of postgraduate medical training;
(c) That the applicant is of good moral character; and
(d) That the applicant is physically and mentally capable of safely carrying on the practice of medicine. The commission may require any applicant to submit to such examination or examinations as it deems necessary to determine an applicant's physical and/or mental capability to safely practice medicine.
(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the commission from requiring such additional information from applicants as it deems necessary. The issuance and denial of licenses are subject to chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 307; 1991 c 3 s 161. Prior: 1986 c 259 s 109; 1985 c 322 s 2; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 7; 1961 c 284 s 5; 1957 c 60 s 3; prior: 1947 c 168 s 1, part; 1919 c 134 s 3, part; 1909 c 192 s 6, part; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 10008, part; prior: 1905 c 41 s 1, part; 1901 c 42 s 1, part; 1890 p 115 s 3, part; Code 1881 s 2285, part.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.

catchline: Application—Eligibility requirements—United States and Canadian graduates.


title: RCW 18.71.051

text:
(1) Applicants for licensure to practice medicine who have graduated from a school of medicine located outside of the states, territories, and possessions of the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Dominion of Canada, shall file an application for licensure with the commission on a form prepared by the secretary with the approval of the commission. Each applicant shall furnish proof satisfactory to the commission of the following:
(a) That he or she has completed in a school of medicine a resident course of professional instruction equivalent to that required in this chapter for applicants generally;
(b) That he or she meets all the requirements which must be met by graduates of the United States and Canadian school of medicine except that he or she need not have graduated from a school of medicine approved by the commission;
(c) That he or she has satisfactorily passed the examination given by the educational commission for foreign medical graduates or has met the requirements in lieu thereof as set forth in rules adopted by the commission;
(d) That he or she has the ability to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in the English language.
(2) An applicant may obtain an exceptional qualification waiver, waiving requirements determined by the commission in rule, if they possess an acceptable body of work related to research, medical excellence, or employment, and have the recommendation of other national or international experts in the same specialty or field.
(3) The commission may adopt rules to establish a primary care license for applicants who have successfully completed the clinical experience graduate pilot program as outlined in RCW 18.71.480.
[ 2026 c 154 s 1; 2020 c 325 s 4; 2011 c 138 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 308; 1991 c 3 s 162; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 16.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.


title: RCW 18.71.055

text:
The commission may approve any school of medicine which is located in any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or in the Dominion of Canada, provided that it:
(1) Requires collegiate instruction which includes courses deemed by the commission to be prerequisites to medical education;
(2) Provides adequate instruction in the following subjects: Anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, anaesthesiology, dermatology, gynecology, internal medicine, neurology, obstetrics, ophthalmology, orthopedic surgery, otolaryngology, pediatrics, physical medicine and rehabilitation, preventive medicine and public health, psychiatry, radiology, surgery, and urology, and such other subjects determined by the commission;
(3) Provides clinical instruction in hospital wards and outpatient clinics under guidance.
Approval may be withdrawn by the commission at any time a medical school ceases to comply with one or more of the requirements of this section.
(4) Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the commission to approve a school of osteopathic medicine and surgery, or osteopathic medicine, for purposes of qualifying an applicant to be licensed under this chapter by direct licensure, reciprocity, or otherwise.
[ 1996 c 178 s 5; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 309; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 8; 1961 c 284 s 6; 1957 c 60 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Schools of medicine—Requirements for approval.


title: RCW 18.71.060

text:
The commission shall keep an official record of all its proceedings, a part of which record shall consist of a register of all applicants for licensure under this chapter, with the result of each application. The record shall be evidence of all the proceedings of the commission that are set forth in it.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 310; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 9; 1961 c 284 s 7; 1909 c 192 s 8; RRS s 10011.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Record of proceedings of commission and of applications.


title: RCW 18.71.070

text:
With the exception of those applicants granted licensure through the provisions of RCW 18.71.090 or 18.71.095, applicants for licensure must successfully complete an examination administered by the commission to determine their professional qualifications. The commission shall prepare and give, or approve the preparation and giving of, an examination which shall cover those general subjects and topics, a knowledge of which is commonly and generally required of candidates for the degree of doctor of medicine conferred by approved colleges or schools of medicine in the United States. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the commission has the sole responsibility for determining the proficiency of applicants under this chapter, and, in so doing, may waive any prerequisite to licensure not set forth in this chapter.
The commission may by rule establish the passing grade for the examination.
Examination results shall be part of the records of the commission and shall be permanently kept with the applicant's file.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 311; 1985 c 322 s 3; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 10; 1961 c 284 s 8; 1919 c 134 s 4; 1909 c 192 s 6; RRS s 10009.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Examination—Record.


title: RCW 18.71.080

text:
(1)(a) Every person licensed to practice medicine in this state shall pay licensing fees and renew his or her license in accordance with administrative procedures and administrative requirements adopted as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(b) The commission shall request licensees to submit information about their current professional practice at the time of license renewal and licensees must provide the information requested. This information may include practice setting, medical specialty, board certification, or other relevant data determined by the commission.
(c) A physician who resides and practices in Washington and obtains or renews a retired active license shall be exempt from licensing fees imposed under this section. The commission may establish rules governing mandatory continuing education requirements which shall be met by physicians applying for renewal of licenses. The rules shall provide that mandatory continuing education requirements may be met in part by physicians showing evidence of the completion of approved activities relating to professional liability risk management. The number of hours of continuing education for a physician holding a retired active license shall not exceed fifty hours per year.
(2) The office of crime victims advocacy shall supply the commission with information on methods of recognizing victims of human trafficking, what services are available for these victims, and where to report potential trafficking situations. The information supplied must be culturally sensitive and must include information relating to minor victims. The commission shall disseminate this information to licensees by: Providing the information on the commission's website; including the information in newsletters; holding trainings at meetings attended by organization members; or another distribution method determined by the commission. The commission shall report to the office of crime victims advocacy on the method or methods it uses to distribute information under this subsection.
(3) The commission, in its sole discretion, may permit an applicant who has not renewed his or her license to be licensed without examination if it is satisfied that such applicant meets all the requirements for licensure in this state, and is competent to engage in the practice of medicine.
[ 2015 c 252 s 8; 2011 c 178 s 1. Prior: 2009 c 492 s 5; 2009 c 403 s 2; 1996 c 191 s 52; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 312; prior: 1991 c 195 s 1; 1991 c 3 s 163; 1985 c 322 s 4; prior: 1979 c 158 ss 53, 54, 55; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 11; 1971 ex.s. c 266 s 12; 1955 c 202 s 36; prior: 1941 c 166 s 1, part; 1913 c 82 s 1, part; 1909 c 192 s 7, part; Rem. Supp. 1941 s 10010-1, part.]
Notes:
Intent—2015 c 252: See note following RCW 70.112.010.
Finding—Intent—2009 c 403: "The legislature finds that increasing the number of retired physicians who provide volunteer health care services is a cost-effective way to improve access to health care for many citizens of this state. Physicians holding a retired active license must currently meet many of the same requirements as physicians in active practice, including at least fifty hours of continuing education a year, despite the fact that retired active physicians may only practice a maximum of ninety days a year, are limited to providing primary care services, and are limited to providing such services only in community clinics that are operated by public or private tax-exempt corporations. This presents both financial and practical barriers for retired physicians who wish to provide health care services on a volunteer basis, barriers that are not as stringent in other states that provide similar licenses for retired physicians. It is therefore the intent of the legislature to ease some of these barriers in a manner that does not adversely affect public safety." [ 2009 c 403 s 1.]
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: License renewal—Human trafficking information—Continuing education requirement—Failure to renew, procedure.


title: RCW 18.71.083

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the commission may not require a physician to participate in a maintenance of certification requirement as a condition of licensure or license renewal. The commission may allow a physician to fulfill license renewal requirements through satisfactory participation in a recognized maintenance of certification program.
(2) This section does not apply to board certification requirements or maintenance of certification requirements included in any of the following:
(a) A stipulation to informal disposition under RCW 18.130.172;
(b) An order issued to resolve a statement of charges under RCW 18.130.090;
(c) An order issued under RCW 18.130.160; or
(d) A reinstatement order issued under RCW 18.130.150.
[ 2018 c 211 s 2.]

catchline: Maintenance of certification.


title: RCW 18.71.085

text:
The commission may adopt rules pursuant to this section authorizing an inactive license status.
(1) An individual licensed pursuant to chapter 18.71 RCW may place his or her license on inactive status. The holder of an inactive license shall not practice medicine and surgery in this state without first activating the license.
(2) The administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fee for inactive renewal shall be established pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(3) An inactive license may be placed in an active status upon compliance with rules established by the commission.
(4) Provisions relating to disciplinary action against a person with a license shall be applicable to a person with an inactive license, except that when disciplinary proceedings against a person with an inactive license have been initiated, the license shall remain inactive until the proceedings have been completed.
[ 1996 c 191 s 53; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 313; 1991 c 44 s 2.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Inactive licenses—Renewal—Application of disciplinary provisions.


title: RCW 18.71.090

text:
Any applicant who meets the requirements of RCW 18.71.050 and has been licensed under the laws of another state, territory, or possession of the United States, or of any province of Canada, or an applicant who has satisfactorily passed examinations given by the national board of medical examiners may, in the discretion of the commission, be granted a license without examination on the payment of the fees required by this chapter: PROVIDED, That the applicant must file with the commission a copy of the license certified by the proper authorities of the issuing state to be a full, true copy thereof, and must show that the standards, eligibility requirements, and examinations of that state are at least equal in all respects to those of this state.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 314; 1985 c 322 s 5. Prior: 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 12; 1975 1st ex.s. c 30 s 63; 1961 c 284 s 9; 1957 c 60 s 5; 1919 c 134 s 11; RRS s 10023.]
Notes:
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: License without examination—Reciprocity—National board examinees—Fee.


title: RCW 18.71.095

text:
The commission may, without examination, issue a limited license to persons who possess the qualifications set forth herein:
(1) The commission may, upon the written request of the secretary of the department of social and health services, the secretary of children, youth, and families, or the secretary of corrections, issue a limited license to practice medicine in this state to persons who have been accepted for employment by the department of social and health services, the department of children, youth, and families, or the department of corrections as physicians; who are licensed to practice medicine in another state of the United States or in the country of Canada or any province or territory thereof; and who meet all of the qualifications for licensure set forth in RCW 18.71.050.
Such license shall permit the holder thereof to practice medicine only in connection with patients, residents, or inmates of the state institutions under the control and supervision of the secretary of the department of social and health services, the department of children, youth, and families, or the department of corrections.
(2) The commission may issue a limited license to practice medicine in this state to persons who have been accepted for employment by a county or city health department as physicians; who are licensed to practice medicine in another state of the United States or in the country of Canada or any province or territory thereof; and who meet all of the qualifications for licensure set forth in RCW 18.71.050.
Such license shall permit the holder thereof to practice medicine only in connection with his or her duties in employment with the city or county health department.
(3) Upon receipt of a completed application showing that the applicant meets all of the requirements for licensure set forth in RCW 18.71.050 except for completion of two years of postgraduate medical training, and that the applicant has been appointed as a resident physician in a program of postgraduate clinical training in this state approved by the commission, the commission may issue a limited license to a resident physician. Such license shall permit the resident physician to practice medicine only in connection with his or her duties as a resident physician and shall not authorize the physician to engage in any other form of practice. Each resident physician shall practice medicine only under the supervision and control of a physician licensed in this state, but such supervision and control shall not be construed to necessarily require the personal presence of the supervising physician at the place where services are rendered.
(4)(a) Upon nomination by the dean of an accredited school of medicine in the state of Washington or the chief executive officer of a hospital or other appropriate health care facility licensed in the state of Washington, the commission may issue a limited license to a physician applicant invited to serve as a teaching-research member of the institution's instructional staff if the sponsoring institution and the applicant give evidence that he or she has graduated from a recognized medical school and has been licensed or otherwise privileged to practice medicine at his or her location of origin. Such license shall permit the recipient to practice medicine only within the confines of the instructional program specified in the application and shall terminate whenever the holder ceases to be involved in that program, or at the end of one year, whichever is earlier. Upon request of the applicant and the institutional authority, the license may be renewed. The holder of a teaching research license under this subsection (4)(a) is eligible for full licensure if the following conditions are met:
(i) If the applicant has not graduated from a school of medicine located in any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Dominion of Canada, the applicant must satisfactorily pass the certification process by the educational commission for foreign medical graduates;
(ii) The applicant has successfully completed the exam requirements set forth by the commission by rule;
(iii) The applicant has the ability to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in the English language at a level acceptable for performing competent medical care in all practice settings;
(iv) The applicant has continuously held a position of associate professor or higher at an accredited Washington state medical school for no less than three years; and
(v) The applicant has had no disciplinary action taken in the previous five years.
(b) Upon nomination by the dean of an accredited school of medicine in the state of Washington or the chief executive officer of any hospital or appropriate health care facility licensed in the state of Washington, the commission may issue a limited license to an applicant selected by the sponsoring institution to be enrolled in one of its designated departmental or divisional fellowship programs provided that the applicant shall have graduated from a recognized medical school and has been granted a license or other appropriate certificate to practice medicine in the location of the applicant's origin. Such license shall permit the holder only to practice medicine within the confines of the fellowship program to which he or she has been appointed and, upon the request of the applicant and the sponsoring institution, the license may be renewed by the commission.
All persons licensed under this section shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the commission to the same extent as other members of the medical profession, in accordance with this chapter and chapter 18.130 RCW.
Persons applying for licensure and renewing licenses pursuant to this section shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. Any person who obtains a limited license pursuant to this section may apply for licensure under this chapter, but shall submit a new application form and comply with all other licensing requirements of this chapter.
(5)(a) Upon nomination by the chief medical officer of any hospital, appropriate medical practice or physician employment group located in the state of Washington, the department of social and health services, the department of children, youth, and families, the department of corrections, or a county or city health department, the commission may issue a limited license to an international medical graduate for the purpose of gaining clinical experience if the applicant:
(i) Provides proof the applicant is certified by the educational commission for foreign medical graduates;
(ii) Has passed steps one and two of the United States medical licensing examination; and
(iii) Submits to the commission background check process required of applicants generally.
(b) The commission at its sole discretion may elect to waive requirements in statute and rule when considering internationally trained applicants experiencing hardship in providing required documents for license applications. The commission may also require alternate demonstrations of competence that may include examinations or specialty assessments, a period of supervised practice, or other tools as appropriate for evaluation of an applicant to the satisfaction of the commission. Hardship scenarios the commission may consider include, but are not limited to, refugee status, persecution in the home country of the applicant due to beliefs, ethnicity, or other demographic considerations. The commission may not consider as a hardship the inability of the applicant to complete the certification and examination processes administered by the educational commission on foreign medical graduates or the failure of required examinations.
(c) A license holder under this subsection may only practice:
(i) Under the supervision and control of a physician who is licensed in this state under this chapter or chapter 18.57 RCW and is of the same or substantially similar clinical specialty; and
(ii) Within the nominating facility or organization.
(d) A license holder must file with the commission a practice agreement between the license holder and the supervising physician who is of the same or substantially similar clinical specialty prior to beginning practice under this license.
(e) A supervising physician may supervise no more than four license holders under this subsection unless the commission grants a request to increase this limit.
(f) A limited license issued under this subsection is valid for two years and may be renewed three times by the commission upon application for renewal by the nominating entity for a total of eight years. Prior to the third renewal, the applicant must attest to the commission that they applied to one or more residency programs.
(g) The scope of practice of an individual licensed and practicing under authority of this license shall be defined in the practice agreement between the supervising physician and the licensee. For purposes of medical practice, employment role definition, malpractice coverage, credentialing, and insurance billing for plans described in, but not limited to, Title 48 RCW, the licensee shall be considered a full scope physician, unless disciplinary action limits the scope of the license held by the licensee or the supervising physician.
(h) All persons licensed under this subsection are subject to the jurisdiction of the commission to the same extent as other members of the medical profession, in accordance with this chapter and chapter 18.130 RCW.
(i) Persons applying for licensure and renewing licenses under this subsection shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(j) The supervising physician shall retain professional and personal responsibility for any act which constitutes the practice of medicine as defined in RCW 18.71.011 or the practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery as defined in RCW 18.57.001 when performed by an international medical graduate practicing under their supervision.
[ 2025 c 3 s 1; 2023 c 14 s 1; 2021 c 204 s 1; 2020 c 325 s 5; 2017 c 45 s 1; 2001 c 114 s 1; 1996 c 191 s 54; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 315; 1991 c 3 s 164; 1990 c 160 s 1; 1987 c 129 s 1. Prior: 1986 c 259 s 110; 1985 c 322 s 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 171 s 13; 1973 1st ex.s. c 4 s 1; 1967 c 138 s 1; 1965 c 29 s 1; 1959 c 189 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2001 c 114: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 27, 2001]." [ 2001 c 114 s 2.]
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.

catchline: Limited licenses.


title: RCW 18.71.097

text:
(1) Emergency medical services providers who are currently licensed or certified in another state or who hold a current certification from a national certifying agency approved by the department [of health] are eligible for a Washington provisional emergency services provider certification.
(2) To be eligible for a Washington provisional emergency services provider certification, the applicant shall:
(a) Be currently licensed or certified in another state and be in good standing with the emergency medical services board of that state or hold a current emergency medical services provider certification from a national certifying agency approved by the department [of health];
(b) Be employed or have a valid employment offer from a Washington emergency medical services agency; and
(c) Be approved for a provisional status from the county medical program director in which the applicant is or will be employed.
(3) If the employer or host agency has:
(a) Fewer than 25 employees holding a current emergency medical technician or paramedic certification or license, up to 20 percent of those employees, rounded to the next whole number, may practice under a provisional certification; or
(b) Twenty-five or more employees holding a current emergency medical technician or paramedic certification or license, up to 10 percent of those employees, rounded to the next whole number, may practice under a provisional certification.
[ 2022 c 136 s 2.]

catchline: Provisional emergency services provider certification—Eligibility.


title: RCW 18.71.100

text:
All persons granted licenses or certificates under this chapter, shall be subject to the state and municipal regulations relating to the control of contagious diseases, the reporting and certifying to births and deaths, and all matters pertaining to public health; and all such reports shall be accepted as legal.
[ 1909 c 192 s 18; RRS s 10022.]
Notes:
Public health and safety: Title 70 RCW.
Vital statistics: Chapter 70.58A RCW.

catchline: Applicability of health regulations.


title: RCW 18.71.190

text:
Every person filing for record, or attempting to file for record, the certificate issued to another, falsely claiming himself or herself to be the person named in such certificate, or falsely claiming himself or herself to be the person entitled to the same, is guilty of forgery under RCW 9A.60.020.
[ 2003 c 53 s 138; 1909 c 192 s 16; RRS s 10019.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
False personation in the first or second degree: RCW 9A.60.040, 9A.60.045.

catchline: False personation.


title: RCW 18.71.200

text:
As used in this chapter, a "physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic" means a person who:
(1) Has successfully completed an emergency medical technician course as described in chapter 18.73 RCW;
(2) Is trained under the supervision of an approved medical program director according to training standards prescribed in rule to perform specific phases of advanced cardiac and trauma life support under written or oral authorization of an approved licensed physician; and
(3) Has been examined and certified as a physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic, by level, by the University of Washington's school of medicine or the department of health.
[ 2015 c 93 s 2; 1995 c 65 s 2; 1991 c 3 s 165; 1986 c 259 s 111; 1983 c 112 s 1; 1977 c 55 s 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 52 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 305 s 2.]
Notes:
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.
Effective date—1973 1st ex.s. c 52: See note following RCW 43.22.010.

catchline: Physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic—Definition.


title: RCW 18.71.205

text:
(1) The secretary of the department of health shall prescribe:
(a) Practice parameters, training standards for, and levels of, physician's trained advanced emergency medical technicians and paramedics;
(b) Minimum standards and performance requirements for the certification and recertification of physician's trained advanced emergency medical technicians and paramedics; and
(c) Procedures for provisional certification, certification, recertification, and decertification of physician's trained advanced emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
(2) Initial certification shall be for a period established by the secretary pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(3) Recertification shall be granted upon proof of continuing satisfactory performance and education, and shall be for a period established by the secretary pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(4) As used in this chapter and chapter 18.73 RCW, "approved medical program director" means a person who:
(a) Is licensed to practice medicine and surgery pursuant to this chapter or osteopathic medicine and surgery pursuant to chapter 18.57 RCW; and
(b) Is qualified and knowledgeable in the administration and management of emergency care and services; and
(c) Is so certified by the department of health for a county, group of counties, or cities with populations over four hundred thousand in coordination with the recommendations of the local medical community and local emergency medical services and trauma care council.
(5) The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs uncertified practice, the issuance and denial of certificates, and the disciplining of certificate holders under this section. The secretary shall be the disciplining authority under this section. Disciplinary action shall be initiated against a person credentialed under this chapter in a manner consistent with the responsibilities and duties of the medical program director under whom such person is responsible.
(6) Such activities of physician's trained advanced emergency medical technicians and paramedics shall be limited to actions taken under the express written or oral order of medical program directors and shall not be construed at any time to include freestanding or nondirected actions, for actions not presenting an emergency or life-threatening condition, except nonemergency activities performed pursuant to subsection (7) of this section.
(7) Nothing in this section prohibits a physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician or paramedic, acting under the responsible supervision and direction of an approved medical program director, from participating in a community assistance referral and education services program established under RCW 35.21.930 if such participation does not exceed the participant's training and certification.
[ 2022 c 136 s 4; 2015 c 93 s 3; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 24. Prior: 1996 c 191 s 55; 1996 c 178 s 6; 1995 c 65 s 3; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 316; 1992 c 128 s 1; 1990 c 269 s 18; 1986 c 68 s 1; 1983 c 112 s 2; 1977 c 55 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
Severability—Headings and captions not law—Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 9: See RCW 18.79.900 through 18.79.902.

catchline: Physician's trained advanced emergency medical technician and paramedic—Certification.