The 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. Home health agencies are required to report adverse incidents within 48 hours and provide specific training for aides, including CPR certification and training tailored to the individual care needs of the children. The training program is revised to require a minimum of 76 hours of training, with a focus on both theoretical and practical skills, and the Medicaid fee schedule is adjusted to establish a minimum rate of $25 per hour for services.

Additionally, the bill requires the Agency for Health Care Administration to seek federal approval for various provisions, including allowing Medicaid reimbursement for services rendered by home health aides and excluding income earned from such employment from family income calculations for Medicaid eligibility. The bill also includes a provision for justifying any hours worked beyond the established cap of 40 hours per week. Overall, 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