WA| Technical Assistance Advisory 2025-01 from the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner provides guidance on the implementation of Chapter 389, Laws of 2025, which restricts public communications about health provider contract terminations. The advisory outlines effective dates, compliance expectations, and notice requirements for carriers, providers, and facilities regarding potential or planned contract terminations.
Main Points:
- Public statements about provider contract terminations are prohibited until 45 days before the termination date unless legally required, and may only be made after written notice has been given to the other party unless both parties agree otherwise.
- The law’s core provisions took effect on July 27, 2025, with formal enforcement actions by the Commissioner and referrals to licensing authorities deferred until January 1, 2026, though informational notices may be issued for violations in this interim.
- By December 1, 2025, the Commissioner will finalize standard template language for enrollee and patient notices regarding potential contract terminations, which must include specific facility references, guidance for scheduled appointments, and information on continuity of care rights.
- The requirements under Section 2 must be included in all provider contracts by January 1, 2027, with applicability limited to fully-insured health plans regulated by the OIC and certain employee benefits programs; contracts with very small practices are excluded.