FL H0617

Creates section 391.224, Florida Statutes, establishing the Pediatric Cardiac Advisory Council within the Department of Health appointed by the State Surgeon General to advise on delivery of cardiac services to children.

Council composed of no more than 13 voting members including pediatric cardiologists/surgeons from 8 specified Florida children's hospitals, 2 physicians at large, and 1 community physician, with staggered 4-year terms and chair elected every 2 years for maximum 2 consecutive terms.

Sets council duties including recommending standards for cardiac personnel and facilities, analyzing periodic reviews, making recommendations on approvals and reinspection intervals, and providing input on Children's Medical Services cardiac programs and rulemaking.

Authorizes State Surgeon General to designate facilities as Pediatric and Congenital Cardiovascular Centers of Excellence based on council recommendations and measurable performance standards; designation is automatically withdrawn if standards are no longer met.

Requires annual report to Governor and Legislature by January 1 starting in 2017; directs Department of Health and Agency for Health Care Administration to contract with national data analysis organizations (STS and ACC) for data collection on surgical outcomes with facility consent; effective July 1, 2016, with retroactive applicability.