The bill amends Section 252.358 of the Florida Statutes to enhance health care access during declared emergencies. It establishes legislative intent to preserve access to life-sustaining medical services, which are defined to include a range of critical health care provisions such as hospital care, nursing services, and durable medical equipment. The bill mandates that health insurers, managed care organizations, and other licensed entities implement specific policies during emergencies, including waiving time restrictions on medication refills, prior authorization requirements for life-sustaining services, and timely filing requirements for admissions.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which these policies must be enacted, such as when a county is under a hurricane warning or a state of emergency. It allows for the extension of these policies through emergency orders issued by the Office of Insurance Regulation or the Agency for Health Care Administration. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1798 Filed: 252.358