House Bill 475, known as the "Medical Placement for High-acuity Children Act," aims to improve the assessment and placement processes for high-acuity children within Florida's child protection system. The bill introduces new definitions, including "high-acuity child," "medical bed," and "medical placement," and mandates that a multidisciplinary team, including an expert in high-acuity care, be involved in placement decisions. It emphasizes the need for timely medical screenings by licensed healthcare professionals and prioritizes medical placements for high-acuity children, even when other options are available. The legislation also requires that reports involving high-acuity children be referred to Child Protection Teams for assessment, ensuring that their unique needs are addressed without duplicating services.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for medical placements, including the stabilization of acute symptoms and the initiation of evidence-based treatment. It establishes a structured process for court approval of placements and mandates the collection of data on the effectiveness of the medical placement system, with annual reports to be submitted to legislative leaders. The bill also expands eligibility for mobile response teams to provide immediate behavioral health crisis services to young adults aged 18 to 25, ensuring that high-acuity children receive timely and appropriate care. Overall, HB 475 seeks to enhance the quality of care and support for vulnerable children in Florida's welfare system, ensuring their rights and needs are prioritized throughout the placement process.

Statutes affected:
H 475 Filed: 39.302, 39.4021, 391.029, 393.065, 409.166, 934.255, 960.065, 984.03