Bill > SB5299

This bill amends the existing law to introduce the concept of "virtual direct supervision" for diagnostic radiologic technologists, therapeutic radiologic technologists, and magnetic resonance imaging technologists. Specifically, the bill defines virtual direct supervision as a form of medical oversight where a licensed physician can supervise a medical procedure through real-time audio and visual interactive telecommunications, without being physically present at the location. The physician must be immediately available to assist and must be within 30 miles of the facility where the procedure is taking place. The bill allows for intravenous contrast procedures to be performed under this virtual direct supervision for the mentioned technologist categories, whereas previously these procedures required direct, in-person physician supervision. The legislation includes important safeguards, such as requiring clinical staff with appropriate training to be present on-site to respond to potential patient care needs, and mandating compliance with federal, state, and local telemedicine regulations. This change aims to provide more flexibility in medical imaging procedures while maintaining patient safety through technology-enabled physician oversight.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5299&Year=2025&Initiative=false