Washington § 70.168.170 - Ambulance services — Work group — Patient transportation — Mental health or chemical dependency services.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 70.168.170 — Ambulance services — Work group — Patient transportation — Mental health or chemical dependency services., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 70.168.170. Ambulance services — Work group — Patient transportation — Mental health or chemical dependency services.

(1) The department, in consultation with the department of social and health services, shall convene a work group comprised of members of the steering committee and representatives of ambulance services, firefighters, mental health providers, and chemical dependency treatment programs. The work group shall establish alternative facility guidelines for the development of protocols, procedures, and applicable training appropriate to the level of emergency medical service provider for the appropriate transport of patients in need of immediate mental health or chemical dependency services. 
(2) The alternative facility guidelines shall consider when transport to a mental health facility or chemical dependency treatment program is necessary as determined by:
(a) The presence of a medical emergency that requires immediate medical care;
(b) The severity of the mental health or substance use disorder needs of the patient;
(c) The training of emergency medical service personnel to respond to a patient experiencing emergency mental health or substance use disorders; and
(d) The risk the patient presents to the patient's self, the public, and the emergency medical service personnel.
(3) By July 1, 2016, the department shall make the guidelines available to all regional emergency medical services and trauma care councils for incorporation into regional emergency medical services and trauma care plans under RCW 70.168.100.
[ 2015 c 157 s 1.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 70.168.170

What does Revised Code of Washington § 70.168.170 cover?

Section 70.168.170 ("Ambulance services — Work group — Patient transportation — Mental health or chemical dependency services.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 70.168.170?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 70.168.170" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 70.168.170 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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