This bill amends RCW 51.36.070 to facilitate the use of a department-approved, application-based, third-party recording platform for independent medical exams. It grants injured workers the right to record these examinations, specifying that recordings must be conducted exclusively through the approved platform, which ensures secure storage and compliance with cybersecurity standards. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the worker and the third-party vendor, including the requirement for the worker to notify the scheduling entity at least seven days in advance of the recording and the prohibition of independent recording by any person. Additionally, it establishes that recordings are confidential and cannot be altered, duplicated, or publicly shared, with violations subject to civil penalties.

The bill also includes provisions for the retention of recordings for the life of the claim and at least ten years after closure, as well as rules for storage and protection in case of vendor changes. It clarifies that the costs associated with the recording platform will be considered part of the claim costs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, and applies to all claims prospectively, regardless of the injury date.