Bill > HB1674

This bill requires healthcare entities providing primary care services to offer hepatitis B and hepatitis C screening tests to adult patients during annual physical examinations, wellness visits, or first visits with a new provider, based on the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention screening recommendations. Healthcare entities can comply by directly offering screening tests, incorporating electronic health record prompts, or sending communications about screening availability. The bill exempts screening requirements during life-threatening emergencies, for patients who have already been tested, or for patients unable to provide consent. If a patient tests positive for hepatitis B or C, the healthcare provider must offer or refer them to follow-up healthcare, including diagnostic tests. The bill mandates that screenings be culturally and linguistically appropriate and requires healthcare providers to complete online training modules about hepatitis B and C through the University of Washington by January 1, 2026. Importantly, healthcare providers or entities that fail to comply are not subject to licensure actions or legal liability. The bill also provides detailed definitions for key terms like "follow-up health care," "screening tests," and "primary care services" to ensure clear implementation of the screening requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1674&Year=2025&Initiative=false