This bill amends section 382.008 of the Florida Statutes, which pertains to the registration of death and fetal death certificates. It expands the list of individuals authorized to file these certificates to include not only funeral directors and physicians but also physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses who are providing hospice care under a written protocol with a licensed physician. Additionally, it clarifies that these healthcare professionals are responsible for providing medical certification of the cause of death to the funeral director and outlines the timeline for submitting this information.

The bill also revises the definition of a primary or attending practitioner to include advanced practice registered nurses providing hospice care, thereby broadening the scope of who can certify the cause of death. Furthermore, it stipulates that any corrections to the permanent certificate of death or fetal death must be noted and signed by the appropriate healthcare professional. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 998 Filed: 401.45