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Bill

Bill

SB 6165

Concerning wellness programs for certain health care professionals.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Annette Cleveland and 4 co-sponsors

SB 6165 creates wellness programs for Washington health care professionals to address burnout, mental health, and occupational stress through supportive resources and interventions.

First reading, referred to Health & Long Term Care.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 6165

Legislative bill overview

SB 6165 establishes or enhances wellness programs specifically designed for health care professionals in Washington state. The bill appears to create supportive frameworks addressing the mental health, physical health, and occupational well-being needs of medical practitioners, nurses, and related health care workers. These programs would likely include resources for stress management, mental health support, and substance abuse prevention.

Why is this important

Health care professionals face elevated rates of burnout, depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to the general population. Targeted wellness programs can reduce occupational stress, improve provider retention, and ultimately enhance patient care quality. This also addresses workforce shortages in health care by supporting the professionals already in the system.

Potential points of contention

  • Program costs and funding: Who pays for these wellness initiatives—employers, insurers, state budget, or shared responsibility—affects healthcare costs passed to consumers
  • Privacy and reporting concerns: Mental health and wellness data collection raises questions about confidentiality, licensing board reporting requirements, and whether professionals will actually use services if worried about professional consequences
  • Scope definition: Disagreement may arise over which professionals qualify (physicians only, or nurses, mental health counselors, paramedics, etc.) and geographic coverage (urban vs. rural availability)

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

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