FL S0378

Creates 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 and to meet at least quarterly.

Council membership limited to 13 voting members with cardiac medicine expertise, including pediatric cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons from eight specified children's hospitals, two physicians-at-large, and one community physician, with 4-year staggered terms.

Council duties include recommending standards for cardiac personnel and facilities, analyzing periodic reviews, making recommendations on facility approvals, reviewing hospitals upon request, and providing input on Children's Medical Services cardiac programs and rulemaking.

Authorizes State Surgeon General to designate facilities meeting council-approved standards as "Pediatric and Congenital Cardiovascular Centers of Excellence," with automatic withdrawal if standards are no longer met.

Requires council to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature beginning January 1, 2017, including data on surgical morbidity and mortality at pediatric cardiac facilities and recommendations for policy changes.