Senate Bill 802 establishes a health professional assistance program under the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) to support health care providers who may be suffering from conditions that could lead to impairment. The bill mandates that DSPS contract with a not-for-profit entity, sponsored by a health care provider professional association, to coordinate services such as detection, evaluation, treatment, and ongoing care monitoring. The program will operate on a voluntary and confidential basis, allowing health care providers to participate without fear of disciplinary action for unrelated conduct. The bill also allows credentialing boards to participate in the program and report concerns about health care providers, with the assurance that participation and treatment details will remain confidential.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the funding of the program through a $70 fee charged to health care providers at the time of credential issuance or renewal. It outlines the responsibilities of the contracted entity, including the requirement to employ a medical director with expertise in addiction medicine and to adopt procedures for eligibility determination, care coordination, and confidentiality safeguards. The bill also provides civil liability immunity for the program and its staff, ensuring that health care providers can seek help without the risk of legal repercussions. Overall, the legislation aims to create a supportive environment for health care providers facing potential impairment while maintaining public safety standards.