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Bill

SB 6166

Ensuring transparency in credentials and communications between patients and health care professionals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Chapman and 1 co-sponsor

Washington bill requiring healthcare providers to transparently display credentials and maintain documented patient communications to improve care transparency and informed decision-making.

First reading, referred to Health & Long-Term Care.
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Bill Summary · SB 6166

Legislative bill overview

SB 6166 establishes transparency requirements for health care credentials and communications between patients and providers in Washington State. The bill appears designed to ensure patients have clear access to information about their healthcare professionals' qualifications and maintain documented communication records.

Why this is important

Patient trust in healthcare depends on understanding provider qualifications and having reliable records of medical discussions. Transparency requirements can help patients make informed decisions about their care, protect against miscommunication, and create documentation that benefits both patients and providers in case of disputes or follow-up needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and compliance costs: Healthcare facilities may face implementation expenses for credential verification systems and communication documentation protocols, potentially raising operational costs
  • Privacy concerns: Enhanced communication documentation could create expanded records that raise patient privacy questions, particularly around digital communications and data storage
  • Credential definition disputes: Disagreement may arise over which credentials must be disclosed (licenses, specializations, certifications, disciplinary history) and how prominently they must be displayed

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

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