Rapid Health Information Network (RHINO) Data Reporting
On September 3, 2026, The Department of Health filed a CR-103P Permanent Rule Making Order with the Office of the Code Reviser, adopting a new chapter, c 246-460 WAC under WSR 26-09-011 (PDF).
The adopted rule implements RCW 43.70.057, which requires hospitals with emergency departments to submit data to the department. The rule establishes requirements for the submission of data needed to support the department's ability to identify and respond to emerging public health threats and chronic conditions that may affect the health of people in Washington. The rule is necessary to ensure that the data submitted under the requirement of RCW 43.70.057 is standardized to prepare data for analysis and ensure necessary data points are visible.
The rule also establishes a fee for certain data requests to ensure that resources can meet requests for data above the standard program duties.
- WAC 246-460-001 through WAC 246-460-060, which establishes requirements for the standardized submission, validation, and sharing of hospital emergency department patient care data, will become effective October 4, 2026.
- WAC 246-460-07, which describes the applicable fee for certain record requests, will become effective July 1, 2028.
Rule Making Documents
Economic Significant Analysis (PDF)
Contacts
For more information about our rule-making activities contact samantha.zee@doh.wa.gov.
For questions about the RHINO program contact RHINO@doh.wa.gov.