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 of children receiving care. Home health agencies are required to report adverse incidents within 48 hours and must ensure that aides complete agency-approved training, including CPR certification and training on HIV and AIDS. The bill also revises the Medicaid fee schedule, establishing a minimum rate of $25 per hour for home health aides, with a cap of 12 hours per day and 40 hours per week, while allowing for exceptions with proper justification.

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 their income from Medicaid eligibility determinations. The bill aims to improve the quality of care for medically fragile children and ensure that home health aides are adequately trained and supported. The effective date of the act is upon becoming law, and the agency must initiate necessary actions to implement these changes within 60 days.

Statutes affected:
H 1529 Filed: 400.54, 400.462, 409.903
H 1529 c1: 400.54, 409.903
H 1529 c2: 400.54, 400.462, 409.903