This bill establishes a new chapter in Florida law, Chapter 396, titled "Ambulatory Surgical Centers," which creates a comprehensive regulatory framework for the operation, licensure, and maintenance of ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). Key provisions include the definition of ASCs, requirements for licensure, application fees, and minimum standards for clinical laboratory tests and diagnostic results. The bill mandates inspections by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and allows for inspections by accredited organizations under certain conditions. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining inspection records, implementing internal risk management programs, and ensuring financial transparency through good faith estimates and itemized bills for patients.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant changes to the handling of patient records, confidentiality, and the peer review process within healthcare facilities. It provides legal protections for participants in peer reviews, mandates reporting of adverse incidents, and requires facilities to adopt patient safety plans. The legislation also updates definitions and requirements related to healthcare providers and facilities, ensuring compliance with health regulations and enhancing accountability. Overall, the bill aims to improve patient safety, transparency in healthcare billing practices, and the quality of care provided in ambulatory surgical centers across Florida.

Statutes affected:
S 1156 Filed: 39.304, 95.11, 222.26, 381.915, 383.145, 385.211, 390.011, 394.4787, 395.001, 395.10973, 395.3025, 395.607, 395.701, 400.518, 400.93, 400.9935, 401.272, 408.07, 408.802, 408.820, 409.905, 409.906, 409.975, 456.013, 456.0135, 456.041, 456.053, 456.056, 456.0575, 456.072, 456.073, 458.3145, 458.320, 458.3265, 458.347, 458.351, 459.0085, 459.0137, 459.022, 459.026, 460.413, 460.4167, 464.012, 465.0125, 465.016, 466.028, 468.505, 486.021, 499.003, 499.0295, 553.80, 627.351, 627.6056, 627.6387, 627.6405, 627.64194, 627.6616, 627.6648, 627.736, 627.912, 641.31076, 765.101, 766.101, 766.106, 766.110, 766.1115, 766.202, 766.316, 812.014, 893.05, 893.13, 945.6041, 985.6441, 1012.965