Bill > HB1784

This bill modifies regulations for certified medical assistants (CMAs) in Washington state, primarily expanding their scope of practice by allowing them to enter and activate certain medical orders under specific protocols. The bill defines "activate" as sending an order for health care services that can be immediately acted upon. CMAs can now enter and activate orders for a wide range of routine medical services, including immunizations, screening tests, chronic disease monitoring, diagnostic imaging, therapeutic procedures, and minor in-office procedures, with important restrictions. To do this, CMAs must work under a standing written protocol that is annually reviewed, complete specific training from a supervising healthcare practitioner, and ensure the order does not involve controlled substances. The order-entry must follow existing delegation guidelines, which require the supervising practitioner to determine the task is appropriate, safe, and within the CMA's competence. The bill also updates definitions and terminology related to medical assistants, clarifying their roles and supervision requirements. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that order entry is not considered an exercise of clinical judgment, which helps define the boundaries of a CMA's responsibilities.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1784&Year=2025&Initiative=false