The bill establishes a regulatory framework for anesthesiologist assistants in Washington State, defining key terms such as "anesthesiologist," "anesthesiologist assistant," and "supervision." It mandates the Washington medical commission to create rules regarding the qualifications, educational requirements, and licensure process for these assistants, who must complete an accredited program and pass a certification exam. The commission will also set a limit on the number of anesthesiologist assistants that one anesthesiologist can supervise, capping it at four unless otherwise approved. The bill outlines the specific duties anesthesiologist assistants can perform under supervision, while clarifying that they cannot prescribe or dispense medications independently.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to formally include anesthesiologist assistants as a regulated health profession under chapter 18 RCW, alongside other health professionals. It introduces new legal language defining terms essential for the regulatory framework and creates a new chapter in Title 18 RCW to consolidate the provisions related to anesthesiologist assistants. This legislative action aims to enhance public health and safety by ensuring that all practitioners meet established qualifications and are subject to periodic inspections by state agencies. The bill has successfully passed both legislative chambers and received the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.130.040, 18.120.020