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Bill

HB 1675

Concerning the corporate practice of medicine.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nicole Macri and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1675 modifies Washington's corporate practice of medicine restrictions, potentially allowing greater corporate ownership or control of physician medical practices and healthcare delivery structures.

First reading, referred to Health Care & Wellness.
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Bill Summary · HB 1675

Legislative bill overview

HB 1675 addresses restrictions on corporate ownership and control of medical practices in Washington state. The bill modifies existing "corporate practice of medicine" prohibitions, which traditionally prevent non-physician entities from owning or controlling physician medical practices. The specific amendments would need to be reviewed in the bill's text to determine whether it loosens, tightens, or restructures these restrictions.

Why is this important

Corporate practice of medicine laws affect how healthcare is organized and delivered. Changes could influence whether large corporations, private equity firms, or health systems can directly employ physicians or own practices, impacting physician independence, patient access, healthcare costs, and consolidation in the medical industry. Washington's approach may serve as a model for other states considering similar reforms.

Potential points of contention

  • Physician autonomy vs. business integration: Whether allowing corporate ownership improves efficiency and access or compromises physician clinical judgment and independence
  • Market consolidation concerns: Risk that loosening restrictions accelerates consolidation, reducing competition and potentially raising healthcare costs
  • Patient protections: Questions about whether safeguards exist to prevent profit-driven decisions from overriding patient care quality and affordability
  • Small practice viability: Impact on independent practitioners and smaller practices that may struggle to compete against large corporate entities

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

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