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, it allows medical assistants-EMTs to perform duties as physician substitutes in plasma 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 clarifies the transferability of certifications among different practice settings, particularly emphasizing that certifications for medical assistants are transferable between hospitals and plasma donation centers. The legislation also includes provisions for interim certifications and outlines the specific duties that medical assistants can perform under supervision, ensuring that patient care remains a priority while expanding the workforce's capabilities in plasma donation settings.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.360.040