The bill amends section 395.3011 of the Florida Statutes to revise the definition of "extraordinary collection action" and to establish new conditions under which healthcare facilities may engage in such actions to collect payment for services. The definition now includes actions such as selling an individual's debt, reporting adverse information to credit agencies, and various legal actions like placing liens or garnishing wages. The bill also specifies that facilities cannot engage in extraordinary collection actions for 30 days after notifying the patient in writing about the impending action, unless certain conditions are met.

Under the new provisions, a facility may bypass the 30-day notice requirement if it contracts to sell an individual's debt without incurring interest or fees and does not take any other extraordinary actions. Additionally, if the debt is later determined to qualify for charity care under the facility's financial assistance policy, it must be returned to the facility. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 656 Filed: 395.3011