The bill establishes new requirements for health care providers regarding the disclosure of health care information necessary for patients to qualify for paid family and medical leave benefits. A new section added to chapter 70.02 RCW mandates that health care providers must provide a certification of a serious health condition within seven calendar days of receiving a request and authorization from the patient. Additionally, health care facilities are required to implement policies that align with this timeline and cannot charge fees for executing the certification, although they may charge for office visits related to the evaluation of the patient.

The bill also amends RCW 70.02.030 to clarify the conditions under which health care providers and facilities can charge fees for providing health care information. It specifies that while a reasonable fee may be charged, the provisions in the new section regarding certifications take precedence. Furthermore, it allows patients appealing federal benefits to receive one free copy of their health care information. The bill outlines the necessary components for a valid disclosure authorization and stipulates that certain authorizations, particularly those related to mental health or substance abuse treatment, have specific expiration conditions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.02.030
Substitute Bill: 70.02.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70.02.030
Session Law: 70.02.030