Pending the approval of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida’s House Bill 975 could significantly reshape the healthcare workforce’s regulatory framework by intensifying criminal background checks for healthcare professionals. This initiative, driven by the motivation to increase patient safety, proposes an extension of the current employment screening measures. Currently, stringent background checks are compulsory for key healthcare roles, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, among others. With the potential passing of this bill, a larger group of healthcare workers would be required to undergo such thorough vetting before securing licensure. This change reflects not only enhanced health sector vigilance but also a steadfast commitment to preemptively protect patients by ensuring that those entrusted with their care meet the highest standards of professional integrity.
The Details of House Bill 975
The bill under consideration not only adds pharmacists, dentists, psychologists, social workers, and various types of therapists to the list of professions that would need background checks but also outlines compliance timelines. Licensed healthcare professionals who have been practicing before July 1, 2024, would be expected to meet the new requirements by July 1, 2025. This deadline underscores the promptness with which the Florida healthcare industry will need to adapt. Individuals found with disqualifying offenses during these background checks may be precluded from employment, with exemptions being a possibility, albeit with stringent conditions tied to approval by a state agency.
Implications for Healthcare Entities
If House Bill 975 becomes law, healthcare facilities will need to revamp their hiring practices to adhere to more inclusive background check protocols. This legislation would not only impact new hires but also require existing staff to undergo updated screenings, necessitating a significant organizational push to ensure thorough compliance. Facilities must keep meticulous records to verify their adherence to these new rules and avoid penalties during inspections. In navigating the intricate requirements of such a legislative change, the specialized knowledge of professional compliance teams, like that of Holland & Knight’s Healthcare and Life Sciences Industry Group, will be crucial. These teams can provide vital assistance in managing the transition and ensuring that healthcare facilities meet the stringent new standards.
