House Bill 1603, known as the "Healthy Florida Act," aims to create a comprehensive health care plan under chapter 641 of the Florida Statutes, ensuring that all Florida residents have access to essential health services, regardless of immigration status. The bill outlines a wide range of covered services, including dental, vision, mental health, reproductive care, and substance use disorder treatment, while emphasizing patient choice and affordability by eliminating premiums and out-of-pocket expenses at the point of service. It establishes the Florida Health Board to oversee the plan, negotiate financial arrangements, and ensure that health care providers do not bill patients for covered services. The bill also mandates that all residents are eligible for enrollment and includes provisions for privacy protection of enrollee data.
Additionally, HB 1603 introduces various new health care services and establishes regional planning boards and the Office of Health Quality and Planning to enhance health care delivery and management. The bill outlines the responsibilities of these entities, including recommending health standards, preparing budgets, and ensuring access to services like a 24-hour nurse hotline. It also creates the Ombudsman Office for Patient Advocacy to assist residents in navigating the health care system and addresses potential conflicts of interest among health care providers. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, contingent upon the adoption of related legislation, and requires a comprehensive report from the Department of Commerce by July 1, 2026, to support the transition to the Florida Health Plan.