House Bill 1489, known as the "Healthy Florida Act," aims to improve medical debt protection and establish a comprehensive health care system for Florida residents. The bill mandates large health care facilities to develop written financial assistance policies that outline eligibility criteria and billing procedures, ensuring that patients with household incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty level receive free care. It prohibits certain aggressive debt collection practices, limits interest on medical debt to 2% per annum, and requires that financial assistance policies be translated into the ten most commonly spoken languages in the service area. Additionally, the bill creates the Florida Health Plan, which will provide a wide range of health services without premiums, copayments, or deductibles, and emphasizes preventive care.

The legislation also establishes the Florida Health Board to oversee the implementation of the health plan, ensuring compliance with health care standards and promoting high-quality services. The board will be responsible for developing cost control measures, establishing health planning regions, and creating an Ombudsman Office for Patient Advocacy. Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for reporting requirements, enforcement mechanisms, and a conflict-of-interest committee to maintain ethical compliance. Overall, House Bill 1489 seeks to enhance access to health care services, protect patients from medical debt, and ensure that all residents of Florida receive equitable health care coverage.