The bill establishes a new work group convened by the office of the insurance commissioner, in collaboration with the health care authority, to design a palliative care benefit specifically for fully insured health plans in Washington State. The work group will focus on various aspects of the palliative care benefit, including clinical eligibility criteria, included services, appropriate staffing, evaluation criteria, and payment models. The group will consist of representatives from various health and social services organizations, including the health care authority, department of social and health services, and the Washington state hospice and palliative care organization, among others.

The work group is required to hold its first meeting by July 30, 2024, and must submit a report to the legislature with its findings and recommendations by November 1, 2025. The bill defines "palliative care" as a comprehensive approach to managing a patient's symptoms and coordinating care, emphasizing a person- and family-centered methodology. Additionally, the section establishing this work group will expire on June 1, 2026.