The proposed bill aims to address health care workforce shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic by mandating that health carriers reimburse advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs) at the same rate as physicians for the same services. This requirement is intended to support health systems, clinics, and private practices, particularly in underserved and rural areas, ensuring a sufficient number of health care providers. The bill introduces a new section to chapter 48.43 RCW, which stipulates that for health plans issued or renewed after January 1, 2026, health carriers cannot reimburse APRNs or PAs less than what they would reimburse physicians for the same services, specifically in primary care and behavioral health care.

Additionally, the bill prohibits health carriers from making nonclaims-based payments to physicians that are not also available to APRNs and PAs for the same services. It also ensures that reimbursement rates for physicians are not reduced to comply with this new requirement. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner is tasked with collecting data on the implementation of this section starting January 1, 2026, and will report to the legislature by July 1, 2027, detailing changes in reimbursement rates and the impact on health care providers. Notably, the provisions do not apply to APRNs or PAs who are employees of health maintenance organizations.