Bill > SB5915

This bill amends the existing health technology assessment program to modify how health technologies are selected for review and evaluated by the state health technology clinical committee. The bill expands the selection criteria for health technologies to prioritize those recommended for patient populations by Medicare or recognized expert treatment guidelines, while maintaining existing considerations about safety, efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and state expenditures. Key changes include requiring the committee to publish technology assessment submissions within 30 days of receipt, complete reviews within 180 days, and provide written explanations for adverse determinations. For life-threatening or rare diseases, the committee must now evaluate all applicable clinical trials and consider expert testimony about the challenges of conducting traditional randomized controlled trials. The bill also clarifies that technology determinations should be consistent with Medicare and expert guidelines, unless substantial evidence supports a different conclusion. Additionally, the bill mandates that technologies previously reviewed should be reconsidered for potential updates at least every 18 months, with a focus on new evidence that could potentially change prior determinations. These modifications aim to make the health technology assessment process more transparent, comprehensive, and responsive to emerging medical research and patient needs.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5915&Year=2025&Initiative=false