Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 388-500 WAC, Medical definitions, WAC 388-501-0165 Determination process for coverage of medical equipment and medical or dental services, possible other related rules.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 74.08.090.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department is planning to update its definition of "medical necessity" in order to incorporate the use of medical information that is supported by scientific evidence in its determination of services. The department also plans to include definitions for new or existing terms that may be necessary in order to clearly define this subject. The department may also amend WAC 388-501-0165 in order to ensure consistency with the medical definitions. During the development of these rules, the department recognizes that it may become necessary to amend, repeal, or establish additional rules to ensure consistency, and so gives notice of this possible action.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The department is coordinating with the Health Care Authority and other agencies in the development of this rule.

     Process for Developing New Rule: The department invites the interested public to review and comment on the draft language of this rule. Draft material and information about how to participate may be obtained from the department representative listed below.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Ann Myers, Rules and Publications Section, P.O. Box 45533, Olympia, WA 98504-5533, phone (360) 725-1345, fax (360) 586-9727, e-mail myersea@dshs.wa.gov.

November 22, 2002

Brian H. Lindgren, Manager

Rules and Policies Assistance Unit

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