The bill establishes a framework for improving emergency medical care in Washington State, particularly focusing on interfacility specialty care transports. It emphasizes the need for minimum standards and training for first responders and emergency medical technicians, as well as for ambulance services and equipment. A new section is created to define "interfacility transport" as the medical transport of a patient between recognized medical treatment facilities, requested by a licensed health care provider. Additionally, the bill introduces the term "specialty care transport," which refers to the level of care required for critically injured or ill patients during such transports.

Amendments to existing laws (RCW 18.73.030 and 18.73.150) include provisions that allow registered nurses without emergency medical technician certification to provide interfacility specialty care transport under specific conditions, such as the presence of an emergency medical technician and the absence of a paramedic. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of registered nurses during these transports, including following medical direction and ensuring familiarity with the ambulance's equipment and supplies. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the quality and safety of patient transfers between medical facilities in the state.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 18.73.030, 18.73.150
Substitute bill: 18.73.030, 18.73.150
Engrossed substitute: 18.73.030, 18.73.150
Bill as passed Legislature: 18.73.030, 18.73.150
Session law: 18.73.030, 18.73.150