The bill aims to update and modernize the Washington state health plan by amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 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 directed to conduct this analysis and report its findings by June 30, 2025, considering various factors such as access to care, cost control, and 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 in developing a statewide health resources strategy.

Key amendments include the replacement of "psychiatric" with "behavioral health" in the definition of health facilities, and the introduction of new provisions that enhance the Office's access to health care data, including all-payer claims databases and other relevant data from various health authorities. The bill also establishes a timeline for the submission of a preliminary report by July 1, 2026, and a completed health resources strategy report by December 31, 2027, with updates every four years thereafter. Additionally, it mandates public hearings to gather input on the development of the health resources strategy, ensuring community involvement in the planning process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030
Substitute Bill: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030, 43.370.040
Session Law: 43.370.010, 43.370.020, 43.370.030, 43.370.040