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 a new provision for the committee to evaluate health technologies related to life-threatening or rare diseases, ensuring that all applicable clinical trials are considered, and that ethical concerns regarding trial designs are taken into account.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the health care authority publish submissions for new health technology assessments and rereview assessments on its website within 30 days. The committee is required to complete its determination and communicate decisions within 180 days of submission, providing a written explanation for any adverse determinations. These changes aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in the assessment process, ensuring that decisions align with federal Medicare guidelines and expert treatment recommendations unless substantial evidence suggests otherwise.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.14.100, 70.14.110