The bill addresses the critical shortage of primary care providers in Washington, particularly in rural and underserved areas, by promoting the use of preceptorships to train primary care physicians. It emphasizes that enhancing primary care can lead to a more efficient and cost-effective healthcare delivery system. The legislation includes a new section that mandates the board to review the costs associated with primary care preceptorships in hospitals and clinical settings, specifically aimed at increasing the number of primary care providers in these areas. A report detailing the findings of this review is required to be submitted to the governor and relevant legislative committees by December 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 70.390.080 to enhance the board's responsibilities regarding primary care expenditures. It requires the board to measure and report on primary care spending, aiming for it to reach 12 percent of total healthcare expenditures. The board must submit a preliminary report by December 1, 2022, outlining definitions, barriers, progress, and methods to incentivize primary care spending. Future annual reports will provide updates on primary care expenditures, including breakdowns by insurance carrier and type of provider, while also identifying barriers to reporting and proposing solutions.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70.390.080