A major healthcare plan that is a priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, is ready for consideration by the full House.
The House Health & Human Services Committee on Thursday unanimously approved the House version of the bill (HB 1549), sponsored by House Majority Leader Michael Grant, R-Port Charlotte.
Supporters say the $717 million plan aims to increase the number of physicians in the state and expand access to health care. The bills call for steps such as expanding medical residency programs to try to help keep new doctors practicing in the state.
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As examples of other changes, the bills would help clear the way for doctors from other countries to practice in Florida and allow the creation of what are known as “advanced birth centers.”
Such centers could provide cesarean-section deliveries for women who have what are considered low-risk pregnancies — something not allowed currently at birth centers.
Grant described the plan as a “great jumping-off point” but said additional health-care issues will have to be addressed in the future. The Senate passed its version (SB 7016) last month.
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