FL S0820

Requires licensed facilities to notify patients orally and in writing when placed on observation status rather than admission status, with written notice included in patient records before discharge.

Oral and written notice must state that the patient is not admitted but under observation status and that this status may affect Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance coverage for hospital services (including medications and pharmaceutical supplies) and post-discharge care (including rehabilitative services at skilled nursing facilities).

Notice must include a recommendation that patients contact their health insurance provider to understand the implications of observation status and their right to appeal the determination.

Written notice must be signed and dated by the patient, legal guardian, conservator, or other authorized representative at the time of notification.

Effective date: July 1, 2015.