The bill aims to update and modernize the Washington state health plan by amending existing laws and creating a new section. It emphasizes the need for a sustainable state health plan and resource strategy, which includes a comprehensive analysis of the certificate of need program. The Department of Health is tasked with conducting this analysis and reporting its findings by June 30, 2025, considering various factors such as access to care, cost control, and health equity. The Office of Financial Management will play a crucial role in coordinating public and private efforts to improve health care quality and cost-effectiveness, as well as facilitating access to health care data.

Key amendments include the replacement of "psychiatric" with "behavioral health" in the definition of health facilities, and the introduction of new responsibilities for the Office of Financial Management, such as developing a statewide health resources strategy in coordination with stakeholders. The strategy will focus on health care facility availability, quality of care, and cost management, while also addressing health equity principles. Additionally, the bill mandates public hearings and opportunities for community input during the development of the health resources strategy, with a preliminary report due by July 1, 2026, and a completed report by December 31, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030
Substitute Bill: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030