The bill amends the Washington Death with Dignity Act by updating definitions and requirements for accessing the act. Key changes include the insertion of the term "advanced practice registered nurse" in the definition of "counseling," and the addition of a new definition for "irremediable pain or suffering," which refers to pain or symptoms from a terminal disease that cannot be effectively managed. The bill also clarifies that a qualified patient may be exempt from the seven-day waiting period for medication requests if they are not expected to survive that duration, cannot self-administer the medication, or are experiencing irremediable pain or suffering.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a qualified patient can choose their attending or consulting medical provider, with certain stipulations regarding the qualifications of these providers. If the attending provider is not a physician, a physician must be selected as the consulting provider. Furthermore, if either provider is a physician assistant, they cannot have a direct supervisory relationship with each other, ensuring a level of independence in the care provided. These amendments aim to enhance the clarity and accessibility of the Death with Dignity Act for patients seeking end-of-life options.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.245.010, 70.245.090, 70.245.230