The bill amends section 409.967 of the Florida Statutes to enhance Medicaid provider networks, specifically focusing on prepaid dental plans. It mandates the Agency for Health Care Administration to establish network adequacy standards that include specific requirements for the number, type, and regional distribution of providers. The bill introduces new provisions that require each managed care plan to maintain a regionwide network of providers, ensuring access to care for all enrolled recipients. Additionally, it stipulates that the agency must set standards for time and distance travel for various provider types and specialties, particularly for sedation dentistry, ensuring that enrollees can access necessary services.

Furthermore, the bill requires Medicaid managed care plans to maintain an accurate online database of contracted providers, which must include information on whether providers are accepting new patients, among other details. For prepaid dental plans, the database must clearly identify sedation dentistry providers and list specialty services offered. The agency is also tasked with conducting systematic testing of these databases to ensure accuracy and confirm access to behavioral health services. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 517 Filed: 409.967, 409.9071, 427.0135
H 517 c1: 409.967