WSHA recently sent a bulletin to members detailing changes to the state charity care law, RCW 70.170. The new law, Senate Bill (SB) 6273, takes effect October 1, 2018 and all hospitals must comply with the new requirements as of this date. The bulletin contains a checklist and additional resources to help hospitals comply with the new requirements.
SB 6273 standardizes the way hospitals notify patients of the availability of charity care, clarifies definitions in state law, and requires hospitals to train appropriate staff on charity care policies and use of interpreter services. The new law aligns with the federal 501(r) requirements applicable to federal 501(c)(3) nonprofit hospitals. (Zosia Stanley, zosias@wsha.org).
