PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: The review of the designation standards for trauma care facilities (WAC 246-976-485 through 246-976-885 and 246-976-890).
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 70.168.060 and 70.168.070.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: RCW 70.168.060 states that the department shall establish minimum standards for facility, equipment and personnel for level I, II, III, IV, and V trauma care services. WAC 246-976-930 General responsibilities of the department, requires the review of the rules at least every four years. These rules were last reviewed and amended in 1998. This review is intended to resolve several issues: (1) Provide clear rule-writing/improve housekeeping problems - structure, grammar, organization, and remove duplication or unnecessary repetition of the WAC; (2) correct some inconsistencies between levels, ensuring that the standards for all levels of designation are appropriate, and to make general and pediatric facilities the same where appropriate; and (3) revise equipment requirements.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: No other federal or state agencies regulate this subject.
Process for Developing New Rule: Statutory and other EMS and trauma care committees, as well as other constituents and the public will participate in drafting, reviewing and commenting on the proposed rules through open public meetings and workshops. In addition, constituents may also receive in the mail or through e-mail appropriate draft rules for their review and input. Invitations to public WAC sessions and other information on the rules and updates are also provided at appropriate meetings.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Open public meetings and public review sessions will be available throughout the state and the final draft of the proposed WAC amended language will be sent out to all affected and interested parties before the formal public hearing is held.
Any questions or concern regarding the designation standards for trauma care facilities (WAC 246-976-485 through 246-976-885 and 246-976-890) should contact Kathy Schmitt, Manager, Trauma Designation, Registry, and Quality Assurance Section, Office of Emergency Medical and Trauma Prevention at P.O. Box 47853, Olympia, WA 98504-7853, e-mail Kathy.Schmitt@doh.wa.gov, phone (360) 705-6730 or fax (360) 705-6706.
November 12, 2002
M. C. Selecky
Secretary