Washington SB5959 limits charity care eligibility to state residents to prevent medical tourism and ensure local access to care.

Washington SB5959 aims to restrict eligibility for charity care to state residents, addressing concerns that hospitals serving out-of-state and international patients could lead to medical tourism. The bill seeks to ensure that charity care resources are available for low-income Washingtonians and those needing emergency care. It defines residency based on intent to reside indefinitely, job commitments, or job searches within the state. The legislation also clarifies that immigration status does not affect residency determinations for charity care purposes.

Washington SB5959 limits charity care eligibility to state residents to prevent medical tourism and ensure local access to care.

Washington SB5959 aims to restrict eligibility for charity care to state residents, addressing concerns that hospitals serving out-of-state and international patients could lead to medical tourism. The bill seeks to ensure that charity care resources are available for low-income Washingtonians and those needing emergency care. It defines residency based on intent to reside indefinitely, job commitments, or job searches within the state. The legislation also clarifies that immigration status does not affect residency determinations for charity care purposes.