Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5547

Introduced
1/24/23  
Refer
1/24/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Refer
3/8/23  
Report Pass
3/24/23  
Refer
3/28/23  
Enrolled
4/11/23  
Chaptered
4/14/23  

Caption

Concerning nursing pool transparency.

Impact

If enacted, SB5547 would significantly impact state laws by introducing new regulations for nursing pools, which have traditionally operated with limited oversight. This potential legislation would ensure that patients and healthcare providers are better informed about the qualifications and track records of the nursing pools they are dealing with. The increased scrutiny on nursing pools is expected to lead to improved standards in patient care and greater accountability for these healthcare entities, directly influencing the nursing workforce and healthcare delivery in the region.

Summary

SB5547 concerns transparency within nursing pools in the healthcare sector, aiming to enhance accountability and provide better protections for patients. The bill seeks to require nursing pools to disclose specific information regarding their operations, including their affiliations, staff qualifications, and history of complaints. Proponents argue that this level of transparency is vital for patients to make informed decisions about their care and to improve the overall quality of healthcare service delivery in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5547 has generally been positive among patient advocacy groups and many healthcare professionals who see the bill as a necessary step toward ensuring better patient care and increased transparency in healthcare services. However, some nursing pool operators have expressed concerns about the additional regulatory burdens and the implications it might have on their operational flexibility and costs.

Contention

Despite the overall support, significant contention exists around the specifics of the transparency requirements. Nursing pool operators have raised concerns that the proposed disclosures may lead to unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles or unintended consequences, such as limiting the availability of nursing staff in certain regions. The debate has highlighted the balance between ensuring patient safety and maintaining operational efficiency within healthcare providers' environments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5493

Concerning hospital price transparency.

WA SB5835

Concerning transparency in rule making.

WA SB5158

Concerning transparency in state and local taxation.

WA SB5526

Concerning nursing facility rates.

WA HB1571

Concerning nursing facility rates.

WA SB5618

Concerning transparency in college admissions.

WA HB1555

Concerning nursing home payment rates.

WA HB1196

Concerning public transparency in the criminal plea negotiation process.

WA HB1978

Concerning transparency in election tabulation devices.

WA SB5538

Concerning postretirement employment in nursing positions for a state agency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.