The bill amends RCW 70.38.128 to enhance patient access to elective percutaneous coronary interventions in ambulatory surgical facilities. It mandates the Department of Health to adopt rules for issuing certificates of need for these procedures at hospitals without on-site cardiac surgery by July 1, 2027. Additionally, the department is required to conduct an independent evidence-based review before initiating rule-making, focusing on factors such as access to care, patient safety, quality outcomes, costs, and the stability of the cardiac care delivery system in Washington.

The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining elective coronary intervention volumes at the University of Washington academic medical center to meet cardiology training requirements. The proposed changes aim to ensure that the expansion of elective procedures does not compromise patient safety or the quality of care while promoting a stable cardiac care environment in the state.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.38.128