Applications for open positions on the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission are being accepted through the end of March. State health officials are especially interested in recruiting applicants for the open public member position.

In addition to recruiting a member of the general public, the state Department of Health is accepting applications for three positions to be filled by nurses.

Commission members are appointed by the governor to serve four-year terms. The open positions will become available July 1. A licensed practical nurse and an advanced registered nurse practitioner are needed, as well as a registered nurse who is a staff nurse with direct patient care.

Applications are on the governor's Web site. They also are available by contacting nursing commission Deputy Executive Director Terry West at (360) 236-4712.

The nursing commission's responsibilities include making policies, writing advisory opinions and rules, reviewing investigations, participating in disciplinary hearings and charging panels, and providing technical assistance to students and licensees. It meets for one to two days, about six times a year. Members are paid $250 a day and are reimbursed for travel expenses.

Opportunities to serve on other boards, commissions, and committees with the Department of Health are available. Contact Leslie Magby at (360) 236-4613 if you are interested.