By July 1, 2020 the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (“AHCA”) will require that all Behavior Analysis (“BA”) Groups have either (1) a health care clinic license or (2) an exemption from licensure as a health care clinic under Fla. Stat. 400.9905(4)(g). A link to the statute is here.
BA Groups will only qualify for an exemption if (1) all of its owners are Florida-licensed health care practitioners (i.e. Licensed Mental Health Counselor), or (2) the BA Group is owned by a combination of Florida-licensed health care practitioner and the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of the Florida-licensed health care practitioner owner.
BA Groups that do not qualify for the exemption must file an application for Licensure as a Health Care Clinic with AHCA. As part of the application process, BA Groups will need to complete a Proof of Financial Ability to Operate. Additionally, BA Groups will need to complete Level 2 Background screenings for all employees and owners who will have contact with patients and/or access to patient information. Health Care Clinic Licensure applications need to be filed at least 60 – 120 days prior to the effective date; therefore, for a license to be effective by July 1, 2020 the application will need to be submitted no later than May 2, 2020.
For additional information regarding updates to AHCA’s Behavior Analysis Policy please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions Specific to Providers of Behavior Analysis Services.
If you would like copies of the regulations, need legal assistance with filing your AHCA Health Care License application or Exemption application, or have any questions concerning these matters, please contact: