Mail Order Pharmacy Licensing 

Online pharmacies that ship medications and/or medical equipment to consumers are known as “mail order pharmacies”. Mail order pharmacies are regulated at both the state and federal level as the government has a compelling interest in protecting consumers from the potentially harmful effects of dispensing medications.

Although licensing requirements vary by state, the general rule is that a mail order pharmacy must obtain a license in each state in which it dispenses medication. In other words, the licensing rules and regulations in the state in which the consumer or patient is located governs, regardless of where the mail order pharmacy is physically located. For example, if a mail order pharmacy is physically located in and ships medication out of Mississippi, but dispenses to consumers in all 50 states, it must not only first obtain a “home state license” in Mississippi, but it also must obtain and abide by the licensing requirements in each of the 50 states where its consumers are located.

Each state varies with respect to how onerous (or not) obtaining a license is. Depending on the type of medication and/or supplies being dispensed, multiple licenses within one state may be required. For example, any pharmacy that dispenses controlled substances generally must also obtain a DEA registration in that state. This is typically an extension from the basic pharmacy license application. If the pharmacy solely dispenses medical equipment, a DME license, or pharmacy license, or both may be required, depending on a particular state’s rules and regulations. The process of obtaining these licenses can be cumbersome, but it is vital to the overall compliance and operations of a pharmacy. The penalties that can result from non-compliance are extreme. Failure to obtain, renew, or report a change of ownership associated with the appropriate license could subject the pharmacy to fines, revocation of a license, or denial of a future license. Failure to properly obtain DEA registration could subject the pharmacy to criminal prosecution. The attorneys at Florida Healthcare Law Firm offers full support through all stages of the licensing process. We make identifying, preparing and filing the applications easy and act as a liaison to the licensing authorities on the pharmacy’s behalf to assure the upmost compliance.

Fraudulent Trends in the Addiction Treatment Industry

In 1996, the Mental Health Parity Act required insurance companies to provide the same benefits for substance abuse and mental healthcare services as they do for ordinary medical care. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act imposed penalties for not providing such comparable coverage.  Due to the expansion in requisite coverage, there has been an expansion in the number of addiction treatment facilities. Consequently, insurance companies and state and federal governments are increasingly scrutinizing the industry for fraudulent or abusive practices and the consequences of noncompliance are gravely significant, whether you are dealing with a costly and time-consuming audit, or you find yourself or your facility the subject of a criminal investigation.

Some of the most common fraudulent trends in the addiction treatment industry are as follows:

  1. Upcode (or downcode) billing practices. Upcoding is the practice of billing for more than the service(s) that were actually provided. Downcoding consists of billing for a lower level of care, commonly where a patient has exceeded their maximum days at a certain level of care, so a provider chooses to downcode to receive at least some amount of reimbursement. Both billing methods are improper and will be considered false claims that constitute fraud.
  2. Paying marketers on a per patient basis. Instead, marketers should be paid fair market value for their time and effort, regardless of the number of successful referrals they procure.
  3. Routine waivers of coinsurance, copayments and the offering of cash discounts.
  4. Providing incentives (anything of value) to patients who treat at your facility. This includes but is not limited to free plane tickets and/or transportation to and from the facility, free medication copays or discounted room and board.
  5. Requiring patients to participate in aftercare. It is okay to encourage aftercare and make a clinical recommendation based upon an individual patient’s diagnoses and future needs, but the ultimate decision as to if and where a patient participates in aftercare, must be the patients.

The implementation of proper compliance proceduressuch asthe utilization of thorough patient intake forms and development of internal policies and procedures are crucialto maintain compliance in the addiction treatment industry. As healthcare attorneys, we see it time and time again where facilities belatedly engage legal counsel after an audit or investigation has already been initiated, and it typically involves matters that werecompletely avoidable had proper compliance measures been previously put into place. If you or your practice are interested in developing compliance on the front end, please do not hesitate to reach out for a consultation with theFlorida Healthcare Law firm.

A Closer Look at LLCs: Understanding Corporate Structure for Cash Pay Practices

Operating a cash-only business model (i.e., not accepting reimbursement from a commercial payor, Medicare, or Medicaid) to treat patients, such as med spas,has many benefits for patients, healthcare providers, and the business.  Whether you are starting a new med spa or currently own one, business owners must consider, among other things, choosing the appropriate entity to begin the practice. While there are many business structures, such as corporations, partnerships, and limited partnerships, a limited liability company (“LLC”) offers unique features and is the one of the most commonly formed entities.

  1. Choosing Your Cash-Pay Entity – A Brief Overview of LLCs

An LLC is a structure that combines features of a corporation and a partnership. LLCs offer liability protection similar to that of a corporation while providing flexibilitysimilar to a partnership. The owners of an LLC are known as members. Florida regulates and governs LLCs by statute.Virtually anyone can take advantage of an LLC.

Business Model and Tax Flexibility.  LLCs are flexible entities that can be customized to different business models, while also leaving open a variety of tax options. LLCs can choose to be taxed as a “disregarded entity,” partnership, or corporation (s-corporation or c-corporation). The LLC itself does not pay federal income taxes unless it elects to be taxed as a corporation.By not electing to be taxed as a corporation, the LLC avoidsbeing taxed both through the company and through your personal returns from the business.

Limited Liability.  When operating a med spa, disputes can arise from creditors, injuries of staff and patients, and even malpractice allegations. LLCs offer limited liability to its owners, offering protections of personal assets from creditors and lawsuits. For example, if a patient is injured in your med spa and decides to file a lawsuit against the business, the scope of the patient’s lawsuit will be limited to the med spa’s business assets rather than putting your personal assets, such as your vehicle or personal savings, at risk.

Flexible Management.Business owners should also consider whether they want the LLC to be Member Managed or Manager Managed. In a Member Managed LLC, the company’s members are involved in the decision-making process. For Manager Managed LLCs, only the designated managers can make such decisions and can only enter into binding contracts on behalf of the company.Larger companies with many members typically prefer a Manager Managed LLC because of thepotential difficulties in organizing all the members to make business decisions or the existence of passive investors members. Member Managed LLCs, however, provide a more streamlined business decision process and are typically best for smaller companies who want to keep their members engaged and for sole business owners.

Operating Agreement. Owners of an LLC should also enter into an Operating Agreement before operations begin. The Operating Agreement is the controlling document that specifies the obligations and roles of the members, determine capital contributions, establish voting rights, day-to-day matters such as meeting procedures and notice requirements, and other issues surrounding the operation and structure of the company.  Without an Operating Agreement, the Florida statutes will govern the rules and obligations of the LLC by default. It is important to create an Operating Agreement to customize the operation of the company to suit your needs best.

Choosing the appropriate corporate structure for your cash-pay business is a crucial decision. From liability protection and flexible management to tax advantages, an LLC provides a well-grounded foundation for the success of your med spa.No matter where your med spa is or will be located, the Florida Healthcare Law Firm can assist you in getting the legal entity established.

What Is the Florida Board of Nursing?

nurse practitioner practice

The Florida Board of Nursing is a vital regulatory body responsible for overseeing the nursing profession in the state. Comprising experienced and dedicated professionals, the board plays a critical role in ensuring the competency, safety, and ethical conduct of nurses across Florida. This article provides an in-depth overview of the Florida Board of Nursing, its roles and responsibilities, licensing processes, and the impact it has on healthcare in the state.

Establishment and Structure

The Florida Board of Nursing was established under the Florida Department of Health to safeguard the health and well-being of the public by regulating nursing practice. The board consists of thirteen members appointed by the Governor, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, and consumer representatives. These members are passionate about healthcare and bring diverse perspectives to ensure fair and effective decision-making.

Roles and Responsibilities

Licensure and Certification: One of the primary responsibilities of the Florida Board of Nursing is to grant licenses and certifications to qualified individuals, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This process involves evaluating educational qualifications, clinical training, and adherence to statutory requirements.

Rulemaking and Regulation: The board is tasked with developing and implementing rules and regulations that govern the practice of nursing in Florida. These rules address various aspects, including scope of practice, continuing education requirements, and standards of care, ensuring uniformity and consistency within the profession.

Discipline and Enforcement: To safeguard the public, the board has the authority to investigate complaints and allegations of misconduct or violations of nursing laws and regulations. When necessary, the board may take disciplinary actions against licensed nurses, ranging from fines and probation to license revocation, depending on the severity of the offense.

Continuing Education: The board establishes and enforces continuing education requirements for licensed nurses, ensuring that they stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and maintain their competency in providing safe and effective care.

Licensing Processes

The Florida Board of Nursing manages a comprehensive licensing process for aspiring nurses. The process may vary depending on the type of nursing license sought:

Registered Nurses (RNs): Prospective RNs must complete an approved nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), and meet other specific requirements outlined by the board.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): LPNs must complete an approved practical nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), and fulfill other board-mandated prerequisites.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs): APRNs must possess a valid RN license, complete advanced nursing education at the master’s or doctoral level, and acquire national certification in their respective specialty areas.

Impact on Healthcare

The Florida Board of Nursing plays a crucial role in shaping the nursing profession, which, in turn, impacts the overall healthcare system in the state. Its rigorous licensure and certification process ensures that only qualified and competent nurses provide care to the public, thereby enhancing patient safety and quality of care.

By enforcing ethical standards and conducting disciplinary actions when necessary, the board maintains the integrity of the nursing profession and reinforces public trust in healthcare services. This, in turn, contributes to a more reliable and accountable healthcare system, fostering positive patient experiences.

Furthermore, the board’s commitment to continuing education helps nurses stay abreast of the latest medical advancements, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased healthcare efficiency. By regularly updating rules and regulations, the board ensures that nursing practice aligns with contemporary healthcare needs and keeps pace with changing technologies and treatment modalities.

The Florida Board of Nursing is a vital entity that ensures the delivery of safe, effective, and ethical nursing care across the state. Through its licensure and certification processes, rulemaking, discipline enforcement, and dedication to continuing education, the board upholds the standards of the nursing profession. By doing so, it not only safeguards the public but also positively impacts healthcare in Florida, fostering a robust and reliable healthcare system that benefits both patients and nursing professionals alike.

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What Is a Healthcare Surrogate in Florida?

Royalty Payments And License Agreements

A healthcare surrogate in Florida is a legally designated representative appointed to make medical decisions on behalf of an individual who is unable to make those decisions for themselves due to incapacity. This legal arrangement is crucial for ensuring that a person’s healthcare wishes are respected and carried out when they are unable to communicate or make decisions about their medical treatment.

Definition and Importance

A healthcare surrogate, also known as a medical proxy or healthcare proxy, is a person chosen by an individual (known as the principal) to act as their healthcare decision-maker. The appointment of a healthcare surrogate is typically done through a legal document known as a healthcare surrogate designation or a medical power of attorney.

The role of a healthcare surrogate is of utmost significance, as it involves making critical medical choices that align with the principal’s known preferences, values, and beliefs. These decisions can range from routine medical procedures to end-of-life care, ensuring that the principal receives appropriate medical treatment even in their incapacitated state.

Legal Basis

The concept of healthcare surrogacy in Florida is governed by the Florida Health Care Surrogate Act (Chapter 765, Florida Statutes). This statute outlines the requirements and procedures for designating a healthcare surrogate and defines the responsibilities and limitations of the surrogate.

Selecting a Healthcare Surrogate

In Florida, individuals who wish to designate a healthcare surrogate must be of sound mind and at least 18 years old. The designated surrogate should be someone the principal trusts implicitly to act in their best interests and uphold their healthcare preferences. It is essential to discuss the role with the chosen surrogate beforehand, ensuring they are willing to assume the responsibility and follow the principal’s wishes in medical decision-making.

Formalizing the Healthcare Surrogate Designation

To formalize the appointment, the principal and the chosen surrogate must complete a written healthcare surrogate designation document. This legal document must be signed in the presence of two adult witnesses, and it should be notarized to ensure its validity. Additionally, the principal’s attending physician should confirm in writing that the principal is indeed incapacitated and unable to make their own medical decisions.

Scope of Decision-Making Authority

The healthcare surrogate’s decision-making authority is limited to medical treatment and healthcare decisions. It does not grant the surrogate the right to manage the principal’s financial affairs or make decisions unrelated to healthcare matters.

Revocation and Termination

The principal may revoke the healthcare surrogate designation at any time, provided they are mentally competent to do so. Additionally, the designation is automatically terminated upon the principal’s death.

In Florida, a healthcare surrogate plays a pivotal role in advocating for an individual’s medical preferences when they are unable to do so themselves due to incapacitation. By formalizing the appointment through a legally binding healthcare surrogate designation, individuals can ensure that their healthcare wishes are respected, and that they receive the medical treatment they desire. The healthcare surrogate’s authority is limited to medical decision-making, and their responsibilities are regulated by the Florida Health Care Surrogate Act. Designating a healthcare surrogate is a vital part of comprehensive advance care planning, promoting autonomy and dignity in healthcare decision-making during challenging times.

Florida Law Healthcare for Children

Florida’s healthcare laws regarding children are designed to ensure that minors receive comprehensive and quality healthcare services. As a vulnerable population, children require specialized attention and care to promote their physical, emotional, and developmental well-being. This article explores Florida’s healthcare laws that focus on safeguarding the health of children, emphasizing the importance of accessible and equitable healthcare services for this crucial demographic.

Medicaid and CHIP Coverage


Florida’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide crucial healthcare coverage for low-income families and uninsured children. These programs offer comprehensive benefits, including regular check-ups, immunizations, dental care, vision care, and mental health services. By expanding access to healthcare for children from low-income families, Florida aims to promote preventive care and early intervention, reducing the likelihood of severe health issues in the future.

Immunization Requirements


Florida law mandates specific immunization requirements for children attending childcare facilities, schools, and colleges. These requirements ensure that children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases, thus safeguarding both the individual child and the broader community. Adherence to immunization regulations helps maintain herd immunity and prevents the spread of contagious diseases among vulnerable populations, including infants who are too young to be vaccinated.

Early Intervention Services


Florida’s Early Steps program offers early intervention services for children from birth to three years old with developmental delays or disabilities. The program aims to identify and address developmental challenges early on, providing personalized services to support children’s growth and learning. Early intervention can significantly impact a child’s development, potentially mitigating long-term developmental issues and promoting better outcomes in education and social functioning.

Mental Health and Behavioral Services


Florida’s healthcare laws prioritize the mental health needs of children by emphasizing the provision of mental health services. The state recognizes the importance of early identification and intervention for mental health issues in children, aiming to reduce the risk of long-term psychological difficulties. By ensuring access to mental health and behavioral services, Florida strives to support the emotional well-being of children and promote healthy emotional development.

Florida KidCare


Florida KidCare is a comprehensive healthcare program that offers affordable health insurance for children under 19 years old. This program combines Medicaid and CHIP services, providing access to preventive care, doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and more. The goal is to ensure that all children have access to essential healthcare services, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Child Abuse Reporting


Florida has stringent laws and reporting requirements regarding child abuse and neglect. Healthcare providers are mandated to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect promptly. This ensures that vulnerable children are protected and that appropriate interventions can be implemented to ensure their safety and well-being.

Florida’s healthcare laws that cover children reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of its young population. By providing accessible and comprehensive healthcare services, the state aims to promote preventive care, early intervention, and healthy development for children. Programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, Early Steps, and Florida KidCare play crucial roles in expanding healthcare access for children from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Furthermore, the emphasis on immunization requirements and reporting child abuse cases underscores Florida’s dedication to safeguarding the health and safety of its youngest residents. Through these healthcare laws, Florida strives to create a healthier and more promising future for its children, ensuring that they have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

What Is a Telehealth Parity Law?

Male black patient talking on conference video call to female african doctor. Virtual therapist consulting young man during online appointment on laptop at home. Telemedicine chat, telehealth meeting

In recent years, telehealth has emerged as a valuable and convenient method of delivering healthcare services. To promote equitable access to care, many states, including Florida, have implemented telehealth parity laws. These laws aim to ensure that healthcare services provided through telehealth platforms are reimbursed and regulated in a manner comparable to in-person services. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of telehealth parity laws and their significance in the context of Florida’s healthcare landscape.

Defining Telehealth Parity:

Telehealth parity laws, also known as telemedicine parity laws, are designed to eliminate disparities in reimbursement and coverage between telehealth and traditional in-person healthcare services. These laws mandate that insurance companies, including Medicaid and private payers, treat telehealth visits on par with face-to-face visits, ensuring patients have equal access to both forms of care.

Telehealth Services Covered:

Florida’s telehealth parity law covers a broad range of healthcare services that can be provided through telehealth platforms. These include, but are not limited to, medical consultations, mental health counseling, chronic disease management, remote monitoring, and follow-up visits. Understanding the scope of covered services will help healthcare providers maximize the benefits of telehealth while complying with the law.

Reimbursement and Payment:

One of the key provisions of telehealth parity laws is the requirement for insurers to reimburse healthcare providers for telehealth services at the same rate as in-person visits. In Florida, health insurance plans are mandated to provide reimbursement for telehealth services that is equivalent to the reimbursement for in-person services. This ensures that healthcare professionals are fairly compensated for their virtual consultations, fostering the growth of telehealth practices.

Patient Consent and Privacy:

Telehealth parity laws emphasize the importance of patient consent and privacy in the delivery of virtual healthcare. Providers must obtain informed consent from patients before conducting telehealth visits and ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect patient confidentiality. Familiarize yourself with the privacy and security standards outlined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other relevant regulations to ensure compliance.

Technology Requirements and Standards:

To deliver telehealth services effectively, healthcare providers must meet certain technology requirements and adhere to established standards. These may include utilizing secure and HIPAA-compliant telehealth platforms, ensuring reliable internet connections, and maintaining the privacy and security of electronic health records. Staying informed about the evolving technology landscape will enable you to provide high-quality telehealth experiences for your patients.

Insurance Coverage and Network Adequacy:

Telehealth parity laws in Florida mandate that health insurance plans offer coverage for telehealth services and ensure network adequacy. This means that insurers must have an adequate number of healthcare providers in their telehealth networks to meet the needs of their covered beneficiaries. Understanding the requirements for participating in insurance networks will help providers establish and expand their telehealth practices.

Conclusion:

Telehealth parity laws play a vital role in promoting equal access to healthcare services in Florida by ensuring that telehealth visits are reimbursed and regulated in a manner comparable to in-person visits. By understanding the provisions of these laws, healthcare providers can leverage telehealth to expand their reach, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to a more accessible and patient-centric healthcare system. Stay updated on any changes to telehealth parity laws and embrace the opportunities that telehealth presents for delivering high-quality care to patients in Florida and beyond.

Florida Law Regulates When You Can Start Working as a Chiropractor With Your Own Business

Female,Physiotherapist,Or,A,Chiropractor,Adjusting,Patients,Neck.,Physiotherapy,,Rehabilitation

Introduction:

As a chiropractor in Florida, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the legal framework governing your profession. Familiarizing yourself with the specific laws and regulations in Florida will help you provide optimal healthcare services while staying compliant with the state’s requirements. In this blog post, we will delve into the key aspects of Florida law that directly impact chiropractors, empowering you to navigate your professional journey with confidence.

Licensing and Scope of Practice:

The first step to practicing as a chiropractor in Florida is obtaining the appropriate license from the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine. Understanding the licensing process, including the educational and examination requirements, is essential. Furthermore, familiarize yourself with the scope of practice outlined by the Florida Statutes, which delineates the chiropractic procedures and treatments that are permissible within the state.

Patient Rights and Informed Consent:

When providing chiropractic care in Florida, it is essential to prioritize patient rights and ensure informed consent. Upholding patient privacy, confidentiality, and the right to make informed decisions about their healthcare is paramount. Familiarize yourself with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Florida’s patient consent laws to ensure compliance and maintain a strong doctor-patient relationship.

Advertising and Marketing:

Florida law governs the advertising and marketing practices of chiropractors to protect consumers from false or misleading claims. Understanding the guidelines set forth by the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine is crucial to avoid potential legal and ethical issues. Ensure that your advertising materials, including websites and social media platforms, adhere to the state’s regulations and accurately represent your chiropractic services.

Collaborative Practice and Referrals:

Collaboration between healthcare practitioners is a fundamental aspect of patient care. As a chiropractor, it is important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding collaborative practice and referrals in Florida. Familiarize yourself with the requirements for maintaining appropriate professional relationships with other healthcare providers, such as medical doctors and physical therapists, to ensure seamless care coordination for your patients.

Recordkeeping and Documentation:

Accurate and thorough recordkeeping is vital for chiropractors in Florida. Keep detailed patient records that include relevant medical history, examination findings, treatment plans, and progress notes. Adhering to the recordkeeping requirements outlined by the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine will help protect both your patients and your practice in case of legal disputes or audits.

Professional Liability Insurance:

Maintaining professional liability insurance is a prudent step for chiropractors in Florida. This insurance provides protection in the event of malpractice claims or other legal issues. While it is not mandatory under Florida law, having adequate insurance coverage safeguards your professional and financial well-being.

Conclusion:

Complying with the laws and regulations that govern chiropractic practice in Florida is essential for delivering quality care and protecting both your patients and your professional reputation. By familiarizing yourself with the licensing process, scope of practice, patient rights, advertising guidelines, collaborative practice, recordkeeping, and liability insurance, you can navigate the legal landscape with confidence. Stay informed about any updates or changes to Florida laws pertaining to chiropractors to ensure ongoing compliance and provide exceptional healthcare services to your patients.

What Are Compounding Pharmacies?

Making capsules in the pharmacy laboratory with a manual machine

In the realm of healthcare, individual patient needs sometimes call for medications that are not commercially available in standard dosages or forms. This is where compounding pharmacies step in. Compounding pharmacies play a crucial role in tailoring medications to meet specific patient requirements, ensuring personalized care. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of compounding pharmacies, their benefits, and the regulations governing their practices in Florida.

What are Compounding Pharmacies?

Compounding pharmacies are specialized facilities that prepare customized medications for patients based on prescriptions from healthcare providers. These pharmacies employ highly trained pharmacists and technicians who possess the knowledge and skills to combine or alter ingredients to create medications that cater to unique patient needs. Compounded medications are prepared in response to specific patient prescriptions, taking into account factors such as allergies, dosage requirements, and preferences.

Benefits of Compounded Medications:

Compounded medications offer several benefits, making them a valuable resource in the healthcare landscape. First and foremost, they enable healthcare providers to address individual patient needs that cannot be met by commercially available medications. Compounded medications can be prepared in various forms, such as creams, gels, capsules, or even flavored liquid suspensions, making them more convenient and easier to administer, especially for pediatric and elderly patients. Additionally, compounding pharmacies can combine multiple medications into a single dosage, simplifying complex medication regimens and improving adherence.

Regulations and Quality Assurance:

Compounding pharmacies in Florida are regulated by state and federal laws to ensure patient safety and medication quality. The Florida Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing and operation of compounding pharmacies, while the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides regulatory oversight at the federal level. These regulations cover various aspects, including the sourcing and handling of ingredients, the training and qualifications of personnel, facility standards, and quality control measures.

Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:

Compounding pharmacies work closely with healthcare providers to ensure that medications are customized appropriately. Physicians, dentists, and veterinarians can collaborate with compounding pharmacists to determine the most suitable formulations and dosages for their patients. This collaboration allows for a tailored approach to patient care, taking into account unique medical conditions, allergies, and dosage preferences.

Compounding pharmacies play a vital role in providing customized medications that address the unique needs of individual patients. By working in collaboration with healthcare providers, these pharmacies ensure that patients receive personalized care and have access to medications that may not be available through standard commercial channels. By adhering to strict regulations and maintaining high-quality standards, compounding pharmacies in Florida continue to contribute to patient-centric healthcare, providing tailored solutions for improved treatment outcomes.

How to Start a Durable Medical Equipment Business

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Durable medical equipment companies provide a much-needed service in Florida, helping individuals to care for themselves and families to attend to their loved one’s medical needs in the home setting.

Here’s how you can get started setting up a new DME company.

What Is a DME Company?

A DME company, or durable medical equipment company, sells or rents medical or health care items to families that need them for an extended period of time.

Things like hospital beds, glucose and other monitors, and wheelchairs fall into this category.

Because these items are usually covered by insurance or Medicare, a DME company must be able to work with insurance companies and directly with families to help them get the products they need and that their insurance will pay for.

What Do I Need to Start a Durable Medical Equipment Business?

  • DME license: A DME license is required by the state of Florida for any person or company that sells durable medical equipment.
  • Home Medical Equipment Application Form: This form must be completely filled out accurately and submitted on behalf of each and every DME business location (even if all locations are owned by the same person or entity).
  • Background screening: A Level 2 background check will need to be passed by all who open a DME business in Florida.
  • Licensed Florida healthcare attorney: In addition to the basic Home Medical Equipment Application form, there may be additional forms and addendums that may be required, depending on the situation. An attorney can ensure that you waste no time and are in full compliance with regulations and deadlines.

Where Can I Find Help Setting Up My DME Business?

Not only can Florida Healthcare Law Firm help you with the application process as you set up your durable medical equipment business, but we can assist in setting up the business structure, filing for trademarks, and creating a business entity in the state of Florida. Call now to get started.