Nursing Homes

Among the other measures awaiting the governor's pen was a proposal that would broaden doctors’ ability to prescribe controlled substances through telemedicine.

AARP Florida says its members have been calling and emailing the governor’s office, claiming the legislation will lead to reduced care for residents, potentially leading to harm.

The Senate voted to pass the measure. Debate has centered on changes involving certified nursing assistants, who provide much of the hands-on care to nursing-home residents.

The House voted 80-31 to approve the measure. The Senate also took up the bill and could pass it as soon as Monday.

CMS chief Chiquita Brooks-LaSure says the agency reserves its power to quickly institute new regulations for “absolute emergencies.” On staffing, nursing home residents might need to wait years to see any real change.

Under the bill moved forward this week in the House Health & Human Services Committee, a patient can designate a caregiver or family member who must be allowed to visit for a minimum of two hours daily.

As reductions in certified nursing assistants near floor votes in both state chambers, the White House announces an overhaul that will include new staffing minimums.

Lawmakers last year passed a measure to help shield hospitals, nursing homes and other providers from lawsuits related to the coronavirus. The measure was set to expire March 29.

The Health & Human Services Committee approved the proposal, which came as nursing homes say they are grappling with staffing shortages that, in some cases, have forced them to leave beds unused.

The House Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee approved an industry-backed bill that would reduce from 2.5 hours to 2 hours the minimum direct care that CNAs must provide per resident per day.

The amended version of the bill reduces — but does not eliminate — the care that residents must get from certified nursing assistants. Those nursing hours would drop from 2 1/2 to 2 hours a day.

As omicron surges, more nursing homes are facing a double whammy: Lab tests are taking too long, and fast antigen tests are in short supply.