This chapter authorizes carriers to reimburse employers of physician assistants for covered services rendered by licensed physician assistants. Payment for services within the physician assistant's scope of practice must be made when ordered or performed by a physician assistant if the same services would have been covered if ordered or performed by a physician. Physician assistants or their employers, who are billing on behalf of the physician assistant, are authorized to bill for and receive direct payment for the services delivered by physician assistants. A carrier may not impose a practice, education, or collaboration requirement that is inconsistent with or more restrictive than state laws or regulations governing physician assistants.

Effective date—2024 c 62 ss 1-8, 10-18, 20-26, 28, and 30-32: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.

Intent—2024 c 62: See note following RCW 18.71A.020.