OLYMPIA, Wash. – Pasco Representative Stephanie Barnard continues to push a bill designed to reduce regulatory burdens on birthing centers across Washington State.
In a recent House floor debate, Rep. Barnard touted House Bill 1824 as a way to simplify the accreditation process, thereby enhancing access to maternity care statewide.
“Accreditation is a tough process. If anyone has gone through that, they understand how onerous it is. But in this circumstance, for our birthing centers in the state of Washington, it is that accreditation process that is over burdensome and costly. We have two separate organizations that do that accreditation. It is repetitive. A lot of the things are exactly the same.” Barnard said.
Under the proposed bill, accredited birthing centers would not be required to undergo an on-site survey or inspection for initial licensure if they meet certain criteria. These include having survey standards equivalent to those of the department and a recent on-site survey conducted within the last 24 months.
The Department of Health would retain the authority to inspect service areas not covered by the accrediting body and can conduct validation surveys on up to 10 percent of accredited applicants. This ensures continued oversight while easing the initial licensure process for birthing centers.
Barnard’s bill passed out of the House March 4. It’s scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Committee on Health and Long-Term Care March 6.
