Hospital Administrators Will Need To Be Licensed, If Bill Passes WA State

A new bill introduced in the Washington State Legislature aims to establish a licensing framework for healthcare administrators working in hospitals. House Bill 1567, currently under consideration, would implement the new requirements starting January 1, 2027.

What is HB1567?

HB 1567 aims to standardize qualifications and responsibilities for health care administrators. It would require administrators to obtain an annual license from the Department of Health, though those employed by the federal government would be exempt.

The licensure process would include an examination covering health care laws, patient safety protocols, and ethical guidelines, along with an application and associated fee.

In addition to licensing requirements, the bill outlines disciplinary procedures under the Uniform Disciplinary Act. It defines "unprofessional conduct" for health care administrators as actions that could harm patients, impede clinical practice, or violate regulatory standards. These provisions aim to ensure accountability and uphold high professional and ethical standards.

As of now, the bill is under review, and further legislative debate is expected in the coming months.

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