Bill > H0647

This bill directs the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to establish a study group to review and recommend improvements for the state's efforts in dealing with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which are germs that have developed resistance to the drugs designed to kill them. This study group will include representatives from various licensed healthcare facilities and practitioners, as well as state agencies like the Agency for Health Care Administration and the Department of Elderly Affairs, and must include at least one certified infection control practitioner. The group will examine current reporting procedures, public notification methods, and response strategies for these resistant bacteria, looking for ways to increase public access to information about their presence. The DOH will be provided $50,000 in non-recurring funds for the 2014-2015 fiscal year to implement these provisions, and the study group is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature by January 1, 2015.