The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance the regulations surrounding electronic prescribing by health care practitioners. It revises the requirements for practitioners who prescribe medicinal drugs, mandating that they electronically transmit prescriptions if they are licensed and associated with a health care facility that maintains an electronic health records system. The bill specifies that this requirement will take effect upon the renewal of the practitioner's license or by July 1, 2026, whichever comes first. However, exceptions to this requirement are provided, including cases where practitioners prescribe fewer than 100 prescriptions annually, are located in areas under a state of emergency, or face temporary technological failures, among others.

Additionally, the bill updates cross-references in sections related to physician assistants, ensuring that their prescribing practices align with the new electronic prescribing requirements. It clarifies that prescriptions can be issued in either paper or electronic form, provided they comply with existing regulations. The bill also emphasizes that pharmacists are not restricted from filling valid prescriptions, whether submitted electronically or in writing. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1297 Filed: 458.347, 459.022
H 1297 e1: 458.347, 459.022