The bill establishes a new section in chapter 74.09 RCW that allows rural hospitals located on federally recognized Indian reservations to receive payments for services provided to recipients eligible for medical assistance programs. Starting January 1, 2027, these hospitals will be eligible for payments at a rate of 150 percent of the fee-for-service rate for both inpatient and outpatient services, regardless of the managed care enrollment status of the beneficiary. However, this payment provision does not apply to any beds in the psychiatric unit of the hospital.

Additionally, the bill includes an expiration date for this provision, stating that it will expire on January 1, 2029. The bill has passed both the Senate and the House and has been approved by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 74.09.5225