The bill amends existing laws regarding the certification and duties of medical assistants in Washington State, specifically authorizing certain health professions to act as physician substitutes in plasma source donation centers. It introduces new provisions that allow medical assistants-EMTs to perform duties as physician substitutes in these centers, as outlined in 21 C.F.R. Sec. 630.5. Additionally, the bill clarifies the transferability of certifications, stating that certifications for medical assistants are transferable between different practice settings, including hospitals and plasma donation centers.

Furthermore, the bill updates the qualifications and responsibilities of various types of medical assistants, including medical assistant-certified, medical assistant-hemodialysis technicians, medical assistant-phlebotomists, and medical assistant-registered. It specifies the scope of practice for these roles, including the administration of medications and performance of clinical procedures under the supervision of healthcare practitioners. The amendments aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery by allowing qualified medical assistants to take on expanded roles in patient care and support within plasma donation centers and other healthcare settings.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.360.040