The bill amends existing Washington state law to authorize certain health professions to act as physician substitutes specifically for plasma source donation centers. It modifies RCW 18.360.040 and RCW 18.360.050, introducing new certifications and expanding the scope of practice for medical assistants. Notably, the bill allows medical assistants-EMTs to perform duties as physician substitutes in plasma source donation centers, as outlined in 21 C.F.R. Sec. 630.5. This change aims to enhance the operational capacity of plasma donation facilities by enabling qualified medical assistants to take on additional responsibilities.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the certification and registration of various medical assistant roles, such as medical assistant-certified, medical assistant-hemodialysis technician, medical assistant-phlebotomist, and medical assistant-registered. It establishes guidelines for the issuance of certifications, interim permits, and the transferability of these certifications between different practice settings, including hospitals and plasma donation centers. The amendments are designed to streamline the certification process and ensure that medical assistants can continue to provide essential services while maintaining patient safety and care continuity.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.360.040