FL H0837

Requires hospitals to notify mothers who consider applying for Medicaid that their personal information will be submitted to the Department of Children and Family Services and they may be contacted about eligibility status; hospital must obtain written acknowledgment from mother if she chooses to apply.

Allows hospitals to seek Medicaid reimbursement for care provided to surrendered newborn infants and their mothers related to labor and delivery if the infant is determined Medicaid eligible by the Department of Children and Family Services.

Prohibits hospitals from seeking payment for care of surrendered newborn infants or their mothers from the mother or any individual financially responsible for the mother.

Permits hospitals to classify care not reimbursable by Medicaid as charity care under the disproportionate share program.

Redefines "charity care" to include care provided without compensation to surrendered newborn infants or persons financially responsible for their mothers, even if family income exceeds four times the federal poverty level; effective July 1, 2012.