This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance health and human services, particularly in dental and cancer care. It allows dental and dental hygiene students to apply for the Dental Student Loan Repayment Program prior to employment, provided they have an offer in a public health program or private practice. The bill also establishes the Cancer Connect Collaborative, which will oversee grant applications for cancer research and treatment, prioritizing those that expand services in underserved areas. Additionally, it introduces the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator to fund pediatric cancer research initiatives and mandates the establishment of peer review panels for evaluating grant proposals based on scientific merit.

In terms of nursing home care, the bill introduces several provisions aimed at improving quality and transparency. It requires nursing home medical directors to obtain certification from the American Medical Directors Association by January 1, 2026, and mandates biennial patient safety culture surveys. The bill also imposes stricter financial reporting requirements, including a $10,000 fine for non-compliance, and requires the agency to publish a Nursing Home Guide with consumer satisfaction survey results. Furthermore, it revises the Quality Incentive Program to incorporate consumer satisfaction as a measure of quality and expands eligibility for the TEACH Funding Program to include nonprofit organizations serving Medicaid recipients in health professional shortage areas. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 2514 Filed: 400.141, 400.191, 408.08, 409.908