As we continue to advocate for the interests of rheumatology in Tallahassee, we want to take a moment to highlight the vital work of the Florida Society of Rheumatology Political Committee (FSR PC) and invite you to support our mission.

The FSR PC is a voluntary, non-partisan committee comprised of dedicated rheumatologists like you, aimed at protecting your practice and your patients. Our goal is clear, to elect physician-friendly candidates who understand and address the unique challenges facing our community.

Recent Accomplishments:

In 2024, we achieved significant legislative victories that directly impact healthcare policy, including the passage of biomarker testing coverage. This law, effective October 1, 2024, for Medicaid managed care plans, enhances personalized treatment approaches for patients, ensuring that healthcare providers can utilize critical testing for better management of various diseases.

Here are the key issues we are currently supporting in 2025, as the legislative session in Tallahassee was extended this past week to end on June 6, FSR legislative work will continue through June as we progress to committee week in fall of 2025.

• Payment Certainty for Insurance Claims (HB 1231/SB 1526): Proposes essential reforms to ensure payment certainty and coverage for Florida patients by adding “physician” to current law.

Last Action: HB 1231 -Health Care Facilities & Systems Subcommittee

SB 1526 - Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration

• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Decision-Making (Senate Bill 794): Mandates that decisions regarding the denial, delay, or modification of healthcare services must involve a qualified human professional, protecting patients from potential inaccuracies in automated systems.

Last Action: Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration

• Prescription Drug Coverage Reforms (House Bill 899/Senate Bill 1342):Aims to ban practices by health insurers that prioritize profits over patient costs, ensuring lower out-of-pocket expenses and addressing mid-year formulary changes.

Last Action: HB 899 - Insurance & Banking Subcommittee

SB 1342 - Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration

• Regulation of Specialty Titles and Designations (Senate Bill 172): Seeks to prohibit non-physicians from misrepresenting themselves as specialists, maintaining the integrity of our field and ensuring patients receive care from qualified professionals.

Last Action: The bill passed the Senate unanimously and was sent to the House.

• Mandatory E-Prescribing Concerns (SB 1568/HB 1297): Challenges proposed legislation that removes exceptions from existing law, which limits physicians’ discretion in prescribing based on unique patient situations.

Last Action: SB 1568 – Laid on Table

HB 1297 - Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration