Who Enforces Health and Safety Laws?

Web: www.JonesHealthLaw.com Phone: (305)877-5054 Instagram: @JonesHealthLaw Facebook: @JonesHealthLaw YouTube: @JonesHealthLaw Health and Safety laws are regulated by various agency officials and theses are arguably the most crucial jobs in our community. Most people do not take the time to adequately research their healthcare providers prior to receiving healthcare services or medication. However, several agencies have been established to safeguard and regulate the health and safety of the healthcare services that consumers receive. These agencies can’t replace individual due diligence but they make every attempt to prevent patient harm and to eliminate fraudulent activity in the healthcare system. Florida Department of Health The Florida Department of Health (DOH) was the first accredited public health system in the United States. Their mission is to protect and improve on the health of all people in Florida by regulating healthcare practitioners and facilities. They offer programs and services for the Florida community, but they are also responsible for the licensing and regulation of various healthcare practitioners and facilities. Various healthcare professions must be licensed and are regulated via the Florida Department of Health such as: medical doctors, acupuncturist, optometrists, and many more. Certain facilities such as piercing salons and pharmacies are also regulated by the Department of Health. Complaints can be filed against any of the practitioners or facilities, which will then be investigated by an officer for violations. The complaint is referred over to the Probably Cause Panel, which will determine whether to file an Administrative Complaint against the healthcare provider based on the weight of the evidence that is provided by the complainant and the provider who under investigation. It is not uncommon for the DOH to place an emergency restriction on a provider’s license if they pose an imminent danger to patient safety. If a violation is found, the Department of Health will determine appropriate disciplinary action to enforce the regulations, which includes, probation, suspension, or even revocation of a healthcare provider’s license.