The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance the regulations surrounding electronic prescribing by health care practitioners. It specifically revises section 456.42 to require that licensed health care practitioners who prescribe medicinal drugs must electronically transmit prescriptions, provided they are associated with a licensed health care facility that maintains an electronic health records system. The bill establishes a compliance deadline of July 1, 2026, or upon the renewal of the practitioner's license, whichever comes first. However, it outlines several exceptions to this requirement, including practitioners who prescribe fewer than 100 prescriptions annually, those located in areas under a state of emergency, and those who have received a waiver due to economic hardship or other exceptional circumstances.

Additionally, the bill makes conforming amendments to sections 458.347 and 459.022, which pertain to physician assistants, ensuring that their prescribing practices align with the new electronic prescription requirements. It clarifies that prescriptions can be in either paper or electronic form but must comply with the updated regulations. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1297 Filed: 458.347, 459.022