Bill > S0998

This bill modifies Florida Statutes regarding death and fetal death registration procedures, specifically expanding the roles of physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in filing and certifying death certificates. The bill allows physician assistants and APRNs providing hospice care under a physician's written protocol to electronically file death or fetal death certificates, provide medical certification of cause of death, and correct or update permanent death certificates when the original information was unavailable or inaccurate. These changes broaden the responsibilities of healthcare professionals beyond physicians in managing death documentation, potentially improving efficiency in recording and processing death records. The modifications apply to situations where a funeral director is not available to file the initial certificate, and they specify that these healthcare professionals can complete medical certifications within 72 hours of receiving a death certificate. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving healthcare providers and administrative systems time to prepare for the updated requirements.

Health Policy (S)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/998