The Commission
It is the purpose and responsibility of the Medical Quality Assurance Commission (MQAC) to protect the public by assuring quality health care is provided by physicians and physician assistants. The Commission establishes, monitors, and enforces qualifications for licensure, consistent standards of practice, and continuing competency. The Commission currently regulates about 25,766 MDs and 2,470 PAs. Rules, policies, and procedures developed by the Commission promote the delivery of quality health care to the people in Washington.
The Commission is composed of twenty-one Governor-appointed members and pro-tem members appointed by the Department of Health Secretary. There are opportunities each June for new Commission member candidates to be considered.
The Governor appoints members to four year staggered terms:
- Thirteen physicians; one from each congressional district and four at-large positions.
- Six public members
- Two physician assistants.
The Department of Health Secretary appoints physicians, physician assistants and public members to serve as pro tempore members. Their purpose is to assure there are sufficient case reviewers, panel members for hearings, and adequate representation on special committees.
As of July 1, 2011, Commissioners are compensated at the rate of $250 per day for their work. There are opportunities each June for new Commission member candidates to be considered.
Code of Ethics
Commissioners shall:
- Make fair and objective decisions
- Strictly maintain confidentiality
- Avoid improper ex parte contacts
- Recuse themselves when there is a real or potential conflict of interest, or the appearance of such a conflict
- Protect the integrity of those who
appear before the Commission
- Support the decisions of the Commission in public.
Mission
Promoting patient safety and enhancing the integrity of the profession through licensing, discipline, rule making, and education.
Vision
Advancing the optimal level of medical care for the people of Washington State.
Values
- We make fair, objective, and informed decisions in licensing and disciplinary actions.
- We earn the public’s trust by being transparent and accountable.
- We rely on evidence-based data and we look to health-based outcomes to determine our effectiveness.
- We encourage collaboration through mutual respect and direct, effective communication.
- We strive for innovation and continuous improvement in all our processes.
- We promote a rewarding and supportive work environment.
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