The bill establishes a new section in Florida law, 499.0296, which outlines the rights of patients to access individualized investigational treatments for life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses. It defines key terms such as "eligible patient," "individualized investigational treatment," and "eligible facility." The bill allows eligible patients to request and receive such treatments if they meet specific conditions, including having a qualifying illness and providing written, informed consent. It also permits eligible facilities and manufacturers to provide these treatments, while clarifying that health plans and third-party administrators are not required to cover the costs associated with them.
Additionally, the bill protects patients and their heirs from financial liability related to the use of individualized investigational treatments, particularly in the event of the patient's death. It prohibits state licensing boards from taking disciplinary action against physicians solely for recommending these treatments and prevents state officials from obstructing patient access to them. The bill also states that no private cause of action can arise against manufacturers or caregivers if they comply with the law in good faith. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.