(1) The legislature intends that the
department and board promote and assess the quality, cost, and
accessibility of health care throughout the state as their roles
are specified in chapter 9, Laws of 1989 1st ex. sess. in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter. In furtherance
of this goal, the secretary shall create an ongoing program of
data collection, storage, assessability, and review. The
legislature does not intend that the department conduct or
contract for the conduct of basic research activity. The
secretary may request appropriations for studies according to
this section from the legislature, the federal government, or
private sources.
(2) All state agencies which collect or have access to
population-based, health-related data are directed to allow the
secretary access to such data. This includes, but is not limited
to, data on needed health services, facilities, and personnel;
future health issues; emerging bioethical issues; health
promotion; recommendations from state and national organizations
and associations; and programmatic and statutory changes needed
to address emerging health needs. Private entities, such as
insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, and
private purchasers are also encouraged to give the secretary
access to such data in their possession. The secretary's access
to and use of all data shall be in accordance with state and
federal confidentiality laws and ethical guidelines. Such data
in any form where the patient or provider of health care can be
identified shall not be disclosed, subject to disclosure
according to chapter 42.56 RCW, discoverable or admissible in
judicial or administrative proceedings. Such data can be used in
proceedings in which the use of the data is clearly relevant and
necessary and both the department and the patient or provider are
parties.
(3) The department shall serve as the clearinghouse for
information concerning innovations in the delivery of health care
services, the enhancement of competition in the health care
marketplace, and federal and state information affecting health
care costs.
(4) The secretary shall review any data collected, pursuant
to this chapter, to:
(a) Identify high-priority health issues that require study
or evaluation. Such issues may include, but are not limited to:
(i) Identification of variations of health practice which
indicate a lack of consensus of appropriateness;
(ii) Evaluation of outcomes of health care interventions to
assess their benefit to the people of the state;
(iii) Evaluation of specific population groups to identify
needed changes in health practices and services;
(iv) Evaluation of the risks and benefits of various
incentives aimed at individuals and providers for both preventing
illnesses and improving health services;
(v) Identification and evaluation of bioethical issues
affecting the people of the state; and
(vi) Other such objectives as may be appropriate;
(b) Further identify a list of high-priority health study
issues for consideration by the board, within their authority,
for inclusion in the state health report required by RCW 43.20.050. The list shall specify the objectives of each study,
a study timeline, the specific improvements in the health status
of the citizens expected as a result of the study, and the
estimated cost of the study; and
(c) Provide background for the state health report required
by RCW 43.20.050.
(5) Any data, research, or findings may also be made
available to the general public, including health professions,
health associations, the governor, professional boards and
regulatory agencies and any person or group who has allowed the
secretary access to data.
(6) The secretary may charge a fee to persons requesting
copies of any data, research, or findings. The fee shall be no
more than necessary to cover the cost to the department of
providing the copy.
[2005 c 274 § 301; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 § 107.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law -- Effective date -- 2005 c 274: See RCW 42.56.901 and 42.56.902.