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HB 353

Sickle Cell Disease Treatment of Pain Continuing Education

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Robin Bartleman and 4 co-sponsors

HB 353 mandates Florida healthcare providers complete 2 hours of training on sickle cell disease management, improving care quality for affected patients.

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Bill Summary · HB 353

Summary of HB 353: Sickle Cell Care Management and Treatment Continuing Education

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 353
Title: Sickle Cell Care Management and Treatment Continuing Education
Status: Filed
Introduced: November 5, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Primary Sponsor: Robinson, F.
Classification: Bill
Subject: Regulation of Professions and Occupations

Purpose and Intent

HB 353 aims to enhance the education and training of healthcare professionals in Florida regarding the management and treatment of sickle cell disease. The bill mandates specific continuing education requirements for certain licensed healthcare providers to ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge and practices in caring for patients with sickle cell disease.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendment to Continuing Education on Controlled Substances:

    • The bill revises existing requirements for continuing education courses related to prescribing controlled substances.
    • It mandates that these courses include content on the treatment of pain for patients with sickle cell disease.

  2. New Continuing Education Requirement for Sickle Cell Disease:

    • A new section (456.0311) is created, requiring healthcare professionals licensed under chapters 458 (Medical Practice), 459 (Osteopathic Medicine), or part I of chapter 464 (Nursing) to complete a 2-hour continuing education course on sickle cell disease care management.
    • The course will cover:
      • Evidence-based treatment protocols for all ages.
      • Patient and family education.
      • Comprehensive evaluations and disease-specific health maintenance.
      • Psychosocial care and genetic counseling.
      • Pain management strategies.

  3. Course Completion and Compliance:

    • Licensees must submit proof of course completion when applying for their first renewal.
    • The appropriate boards may approve additional equivalent courses to satisfy this requirement.
    • Failure to comply with the educational requirements may result in disciplinary action and the necessity to complete the course.

Affected Parties

  • Healthcare Professionals: Physicians, osteopathic physicians, and nurses who are licensed under the specified chapters will be directly impacted by the new continuing education requirements.
  • Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: The bill aims to improve the quality of care for patients suffering from sickle cell disease by ensuring that their healthcare providers are well-trained in the latest management and treatment protocols.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on November 5, 2025, and is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
  • The appropriate licensing boards will have the authority to adopt rules necessary for the implementation of this act.

Conclusion

HB 353 represents a significant step towards improving the management and treatment of sickle cell disease in Florida by mandating that healthcare providers receive specialized training. This initiative is expected to enhance patient care and outcomes for individuals affected by this condition.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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