This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the home health aide program for medically fragile children. It mandates an annual assessment of the program, which will include caregiver satisfaction, data on adverse incidents, and hospitalization rates for children receiving care. The bill also revises training requirements for home health aides, ensuring they complete an agency-approved program and maintain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Additionally, it establishes a minimum Medicaid fee schedule for home health agencies employing these aides, with a cap on hours worked per week, while allowing for exceptions with proper justification.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Agency for Health Care Administration to seek federal approval for various provisions, including allowing Medicaid reimbursement for services rendered under this program and excluding income earned by home health aides from family income calculations for Medicaid eligibility. The legislation aims to improve the quality of care for medically fragile children while ensuring that home health aides are adequately trained and supported.

Statutes affected:
S 1156 Filed: 400.54
S 1156 c1: 400.54, 400.462
S 1156 c2: 400.54, 400.462, 409.903
S 1156 e1: 400.54, 400.462, 409.903
S 1156 er: 400.54, 400.462, 409.903