The bill amends the health technology assessment program under RCW 70.14.100 and 70.14.110, focusing on the selection and review process for health technologies. It allows the administrator, in consultation with participating agencies and the committee, to prioritize technologies for review based on specific criteria, including those with established patient access under Medicare and concerns regarding safety, efficacy, or cost-effectiveness. The bill introduces new provisions for the evaluation of health technologies related to life-threatening or rare diseases, requiring the committee to consider all applicable clinical trials and expert information regarding trial feasibility.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the health care authority publish submissions for new technology assessments and rereview assessments on its website within 30 days, and it requires the committee to complete its determinations and communicate decisions within 180 days. In cases of adverse determinations, the committee must provide a written explanation of the rationale within the same timeframe. These changes aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in the assessment process while ensuring that determinations align with federal Medicare decisions and expert guidelines.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.14.100, 70.14.110
Bill as passed Legislature: 70.14.100, 70.14.110
Session law: 70.14.100, 70.14.110