This bill establishes new requirements for health plans in Washington State regarding coverage for biomarker testing, effective January 1, 2026. It mandates that health carriers, public employee health plans, and the authority administering medical assistance programs must provide coverage for biomarker testing when it is supported by medical and scientific evidence. The criteria for coverage include tests approved by the FDA, national coverage determinations from Medicare, recognized clinical practice guidelines, and consensus statements. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that coverage should be provided in a way that minimizes disruptions in patient care, such as the need for multiple biopsies or biospecimen samples.

The bill also defines key terms related to biomarker testing, including "biomarker," which refers to measurable characteristics indicating biological processes or responses to treatment, and "biomarker testing," which involves analyzing a patient's biospecimen for these indicators. The definitions for "consensus statements" and "nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines" are included to ensure clarity in the standards that support the coverage requirements. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance patient care by ensuring access to necessary diagnostic and treatment tools based on robust scientific evidence.