FL S0380

Repeals section 383.336, Florida Statutes, relating to provider hospitals.

Prohibits health care facilities from employing or contracting with surgical assistants unless they are certified surgical assistants, and surgical technologists unless they are certified surgical technologists, effective July 1, 2014.

Provides exceptions to certification requirements for military-trained personnel, those employed before July 1, 2014, licensed health care practitioners, and students enrolled in accredited training programs (who have 1 year after program completion to obtain certification).

Requires hospitals to notify all obstetrical physicians with hospital privileges at least 120 days before closing an obstetrical department or ceasing obstetrical services, unless circumstances beyond the hospital's control make advance notice impossible.

Defines terms including "certified surgical assistant," "certified surgical technologist," "surgeon," "surgical assistant," and "surgical technologist" for purposes of the legislation.