LETTER: Are Washington’s Tax Policies Affecting Access to Doctors?

A Burien resident’s letter raises concerns about Washington’s tax policies and their potential impact on physician availability and patient access to care. The writer notes that B&O tax rates on physician practices have increased 40% since 2019, and questions whether new taxes like SB 6346 might drive doctors out of state or worsen specialist shortages. State officials acknowledged data gaps in physician workforce forecasting.