FL H0425

Requires hospitals to establish policies and procedures for employing persons who perform surgical technology functions in operating rooms.

Mandates that surgical technology employees complete a nationally accredited educational program and obtain certified surgical technologist credentials within 6 months of hire.

Exempts currently employed hospital staff from credentialing requirements as long as employment continues, and excludes licensed physicians, physician assistants, interns, and residents on surgical rotation.

Authorizes the Agency for Health Care Administration to accept accrediting organization surveys and inspections in place of its own periodic inspections for compliance verification.

Takes effect October 1, 2012.