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Bill

SB 5657

Authorizing certain health professions to act as physician substitutes for plasma source donation centers.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Perry Dozier and 1 co-sponsor

SB 5657 allows certain health professions to substitute for physicians at plasma donation centers for donor screening and medical evaluations, streamlining operations but raising oversight concerns.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5657

Legislative bill overview

SB 5657 expands the scope of practice for certain health professions in Washington by allowing them to perform physician duties at plasma donation centers, specifically acting as "physician substitutes" for donor screening and medical evaluation. The bill streamlines staffing requirements at plasma collection facilities by reducing dependence on licensed physicians for routine donor assessments.

Why is this important

Plasma donation centers face staffing challenges and operational costs associated with physician oversight. This bill could improve access to plasma collection services and reduce operational expenses, but it raises questions about medical oversight standards and donor safety protocols. Plasma donations are critical for manufacturing life-saving medications, making the efficiency of collection operations a public health matter.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient safety standards: Unclear which health professions qualify and whether non-physician evaluation of complex medical histories meets adequate safety standards for blood/plasma donation screening
  • Scope creep concerns: Medical boards and physician organizations may object to reducing physician oversight in clinical settings where medical judgment is traditionally required
  • Regulatory clarity: The bill's definition of "physician substitute" and specific delegated duties needs clear operational parameters to prevent inconsistent implementation across facilities
  • Compensation and liability: Questions about liability assignment and appropriate compensation for non-physicians performing physician-level medical decision-making

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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